2006 Vauxhall Vivaro 1.9L Diesel · FH55 RTO

The most recent DVSA MOT test conducted on 10 June 2026 resulted in a pass, with three items recorded as advisory. Notably, these advisories include a nearside track rod end ball joint with slight play, corrosion to the offside front subframe mounting prescribed area, and general wear, pitting, or scoring to the brake discs. Reviewing the sequence of recent tests, the overall maintenance trend appears broadly stable but with persistent and recurring concerns, particularly regarding steering components and brake disc condition, which have been flagged consistently across multiple test cycles. The absence of any outright failures over the recorded period suggests the vehicle has been maintained to a roadworthy standard, though the accumulating advisories warrant close attention. With approximately 113,673 miles recorded over twenty years, the annual usage rate equates to around 5,684 miles, which is notably low for a commercial-oriented vehicle such as the Vauxhall Vivaro. This mileage profile is more characteristic of a vehicle that has either seen light duty use or has experienced prolonged periods of standing. Low recorded mileage does not necessarily equate to a mechanically sound condition, as age-related degradation of components such as rubber seals, coolant, brake fluid, and suspension bushes can progress independently of distance travelled. Furthermore, the MOT records reflect consistent year-on-year testing, suggesting the vehicle has remained in regular use rather than being laid up for extended intervals. Given the recurring advisory regarding the nearside track rod end ball joint with slight play, a prospective buyer should request a physical inspection of the steering geometry and front suspension. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking noises from the front end, particularly when traversing uneven road surfaces or speed bumps, and pay attention to any vagueness or wandering in the steering response. The track rod end is a wear-and-tear component that, once play develops, will continue to deteriorate and ultimately fail its MOT criteria. Replacement is relatively straightforward, but it should be carried out promptly to maintain safe steering characteristics. Additionally, the offside front subframe mounting corrosion flagged in both the 2026 and 2025 tests is a point of concern; although currently assessed as not excessive, subframe corrosion can progress, particularly on commercial vehicles exposed to winter road treatments, and a thorough visual examination of the chassis mounting points, including tapping with a screwdriver to assess structural integrity, is advisable. The brake disc advisories, particularly the rear brake disc pitting or scoring noted across nearly every test since 2020, indicate progressive wear to the braking surfaces. While not yet seriously weakened, the buyer should anticipate disc replacement in the near future, particularly if judder or vibration is experienced through the brake pedal under firm application. The advisory regarding the offside front tyre worn close to the legal limit in 2025, combined with the constant velocity boot deterioration noted in 2020, suggests attention to tyre condition and drive shaft integrity. On inspection, examine the CV boots for splits or grease leakage, and verify that tyres are of recent manufacture with adequate tread depth and no sidewall cracking or perishing, given the vehicle's age. Finally, given the low annual mileage, the buyer should verify the age and condition of the 12-volt battery, request evidence of time-based fluid servicing including brake fluid, coolant, and gearbox oil, and confirm that the cam belt or timing chain service schedule has been adhered to according to calendar age rather than mileage alone, as neglected interval-based maintenance is a frequent issue in low-mileage vehicles.