2022 Vauxhall Vivaro F2700 Dynamic S/S 1.5L Diesel · FE22 PLV

The most recent DVSA examination on 12 May 2026 resulted in a Pass, although the same date shows a Fail immediately preceding it for several Prescribed Items which were evidently rectified before the vehicle was re-submitted. The stop lamp defects (both nearside and offside) are typically the result of failed bulbs, a faulty brake light switch, or a wiring/connector issue, and these are relatively inexpensive items to remedy. The headlamp aim failures on both front lamps, recorded as too low in May 2026 and too high in May 2025, suggest that no one has been adjusting or checking the headlamp levelling system for at least twelve months. On a vehicle equipped with automatic or manual headlamp levelling, this may indicate a failing levelling motor, a cracked linkage, or simply that the suspension has settled under load, all of which warrant physical inspection. Combined with the persistent advisories concerning rear tyre wear and brake component condition across two consecutive tests, the overall maintenance trend appears reactive rather than proactive, with issues being addressed only at the point of MOT rather than through routine servicing. With 40,242 miles recorded over approximately four years, this Vivaro is averaging around 10,000 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a commercial or light-duty van of this age and not suggestive of either extended standing or particularly heavy use. There are no mileage gaps between MOT records that would imply long periods off the road, and the consistent annual accumulation points to regular duty. This level of usage means normal wear items such as clutches, turbochargers, dual-mass flywheels, and suspension components will have experienced steady but not extreme working stress, though light commercial vans are frequently subjected to higher unladen and loaded weight cycles which accelerate wear on rear springs, bushes, and dampers relative to a passenger car of equivalent mileage. The recurring advisories merit close attention during a pre-purchase inspection. The 2025 advisories on front and rear brake discs, alongside the note that rear brake pads are wearing thin, indicate that pad and possibly disc replacement is now due or imminent; on a test drive, listen for any grinding or squeal under light braking, feel for shudder through the pedal suggesting disc lipping or runout, and check for pulling to one side which could indicate a binding caliper. The rear nearside tyre was flagged as worn on the edge to 3mm and also recorded with a nail, both of which are dangerous at or below the legal 1.6mm tread limit and demand immediate replacement regardless of whether they were renewed post-test. Inspect the nearside rear wheel alignment, as inner or outer edge wear typically points to camber or toe misalignment, worn rear suspension bushes, or sagging coil springs from heavy rear axle loading. Verify that any replacement tyres are of matching size and load rating, particularly on a commercial vehicle where load index compliance is a legal requirement. Beyond the documented defects, a vehicle of this age and mileage warrants inspection of items that deteriorate with calendar time rather than distance. Check the sidewalls of all tyres for cracking or perishing regardless of remaining tread depth, as age-hardened rubber can fail catastrophically. Examine the underside, particularly jacking points, sill seams, and suspension components, for corrosion consistent with commercial use in wet or salted conditions. Inspect the front brake caliper guide pins and slider boots for corrosion-induced binding, which is common on vehicles used for frequent short stops rather than long motorway runs. Confirm the 12V battery health via a proper load test, as commercial vans often suffer from auxiliary equipment drain. Verify the timing belt or cam belt replacement interval has not been exceeded based on age or mileage, that the service book shows timely oil and filter changes, and that all fluids including brake fluid, coolant, and AdBlue are at correct levels and within their specified service life. Finally, ensure the headlamp levelling system operates correctly through its full range and that both stop lamps illuminate crisply with no delay, as these were the most recently failed items.