2013 Vauxhall Zafira 1.6L Petrol · FH62 FZU

The vehicle presents a worsening maintenance trend regarding consumable components and minor mechanical leaks. While the January 2026 test at 78,486 miles resulted in a pass, the tester flagged several immediate requirements, specifically thin front brake pads and pitted front brake discs. This follows a pattern of recurring issues seen in the 2023 test at 67,616 miles, where thin brake pads were also noted. The presence of a damaged windscreen and a deteriorated offside front suspension arm ball joint dust cover suggests that while the vehicle remains legal, the standard of preventative maintenance is declining. The mileage accumulation is consistent with a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 6,000 miles per year. The records show steady progress from 63,547 miles in January 2022 to the most recent 78,486 miles in January 2026. This gradual increase suggests regular, predictable usage rather than long periods of inactivity. However, the consistent appearance of tyre advisories in both the January 2024 and January 2025 tests indicates a tendency for the previous owner to run consumables close to their legal limits before addressing them. A prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system and the front suspension. The recurrence of brake pad and disc issues suggests the front assembly may require a full overhaul rather than just pads. The January 2025 advisory regarding general underbody surface corrosion warrants a close examination of the chassis and subframes to ensure structural integrity is not compromised. Additionally, the persistent oil leak noted in the 2024 and 2025 tests, specifically identified as a gearbox leak in 2024, needs verification to confirm it remains non-excessive and is not a sign of a developing seal failure.