2006 Vauxhall Vivaro 1.9L Diesel · FN06 KVR

A pattern of persistent brake binding on the nearside axle dominates the mechanical history of this Vauxhall Vivaro, recurring across both the 2023 and 2025 tests at the front and rear. The most recent assessment on 19 July 2025 recorded the vehicle as a pass, yet every advisory carried forward from that same date's earlier failure, indicating the underlying issues were not rectified between the two visits. Coupled with front brake disc pitting and scoring flagged in November 2023, the braking system shows a clear trajectory of wear rather than improvement. An exhaust failure in 2023 classified as dangerous for excessive smoke suggests the emissions or turbo sealing has been a concern, though this was not repeated on subsequent tests. The cluster of suspension, brake, and engine bay advisories paints a picture of an ageing light commercial vehicle receiving only the minimum remedial work to remain roadworthy. With 192,546 miles accumulated over roughly two decades, this Vivaro averages approximately 9,627 miles annually, which sits squarely within the expected range for a working van of its era. The MOT cadence, with tests recorded in late 2022, late 2023, and mid 2025, indicates the vehicle has remained in active service without significant lay-up periods. A small gap exists between the 2022 and 2023 tests, but nothing suggests extended off-road storage that would introduce concerns about seized calipers, perished coolant hoses, or battery deterioration. Mechanically, this consistent usage profile is broadly favourable, as the engine, transmission, and ancillary drive components have not been left to degrade through inactivity. However, the high absolute mileage means wear-related defects on suspension joints, engine sealing, and exhaust mounting points should be expected as standard. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the nearside front and rear brake assemblies, given the recurring binding advisories. On a test drive, listen for any dragging sensation or uneven pulling to one side under light braking, and confirm the nearside wheels spin without resistance when jacked. Investigate the condition of the brake caliper slide pins and pistons, as binding is commonly caused by seized mechanisms or collapsed piston seals on the Vivaro platform. The nearside front suspension ball joint dust cover was recorded as severely deteriorated in 2023; check for any knocking or clonking over uneven surfaces, particularly when turning, and inspect the joint itself for grease loss, split boots, or vertical play when the wheel is levered with a bar. Given the front disc pitting advisory, feel for any judder through the brake pedal under firm application, which would suggest the discs have worn beyond acceptable limits. The minor oil leak recorded in both 2022 and 2023 warrants visual inspection of the engine block, sump, and cam cover gasket for fresh seepage or staining on the undertray. Inspect the nearside rear wheel for the slight distortion previously noted, checking for any radial run-out that could cause vibration at speed. The missing nearside front indicator cover is a straightforward replacement but must be addressed before the next test. Finally, examine the windscreen damage noted in 2022 to ensure it has not progressed into the driver's swept area, and confirm the rear registration plate remains legible. A thorough underbody inspection for corrosion on the subframe, brake lines, and exhaust mounting points would be prudent given the vehicle's age and high mileage.