2017 Vauxhall Vivaro 1.6L Diesel · FJ17 XOW

The vehicle currently presents as roadworthy, but the maintenance history reveals a reactive approach to repairs rather than proactive upkeep. The most recent test in March 2026 at 106,183 miles passed with minor advisories related to a defective wiper blade and pitted rear brake discs. Looking back at the history, the trend shows a cycle where significant mechanical faults are only addressed after a test failure, suggesting the previous owner only invested in maintenance when legally required to keep the vehicle moving. At 106,183 miles over nine years, the Vivaro averages approximately 11,800 miles per year, which is consistent with typical light-commercial usage for this model. There is a notable gap in records between September 2023 and March 2025, where the vehicle covered over 11,000 miles in just sixteen months. This period of higher intensity explains the cluster of failures seen in early 2025, where suspension components, tyres, and engine management systems reached their end of life simultaneously. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the front suspension assembly, as the record shows a history of issues with anti-roll bar linkages and ball joints. The 2023 failure noted serious fluid leaks from both front shock absorbers, so these should be checked for any signs of renewed weeping or poor damping. Additionally, the braking system requires close attention; the tester flagged a binding nearside rear brake in 2023 and scored rear discs in the most recent 2026 test. The engine management light fault that triggered a failure in March 2025 is another specific concern. While the vehicle passed shortly after, a professional diagnostic scan is necessary to ensure no lingering fault codes remain in the control module. The recurring mention of tyres worn to the legal limit in 2025 indicates that basic consumables are often ignored until they become hazardous, so verifying the current depth and age of all tyres is essential before any purchase.