2009 Vauxhall Zafira 1.9L Diesel · FN09 RFX

The most recent DVSA MOT test on the Vauxhall Zafira occurred on 2026-04-15, where the vehicle passed with several advisories present. While this is a positive outcome, the MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues rather than a consistent improvement. The vehicle failed twice in the past three years, most notably in 2024-03-28 with major defects on both rear brake discs and in 2025-04-25 with a severely worn front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint and an unsafe coil spring modification. These failures suggest a history of wear progression that has not been fully addressed, indicating either inconsistent maintenance or underlying mechanical degradation that requires proactive attention. The recorded mileage of 111,736 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 17 years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of around 6,573 miles per year, which is typical for a car of this age and class. However, the MOT history does not provide explicit details on long periods of inactivity or rapid mileage accumulation, but the presence of multiple advisories on brake discs and suspension components—particularly those associated with high-stress areas like the rear axle swivel pins, coil springs, and anti-roll bar ball joints—suggests that the vehicle has undergone significant wear over time. The wear on the anti-roll bar linkage ball joint in 2025-04-25 is particularly critical, as excessive wear in this joint can lead to steering instability, uneven tyre wear, and potential suspension binding, all of which may worsen with continued use. For the prospective buyer, the most pressing concerns stem from the recurring advisories on brake discs and the major defects in suspension components. The rear brake discs have been flagged as worn, pitted, or scored in multiple MOT tests, with two major failures indicating significant thinning or structural compromise. On a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal response, a shuddering sensation when braking, or signs of brake dust buildup around the wheels, which may indicate warping or glazing. Additionally, check for excessive brake fluid consumption or a spongy pedal feel, as these could signal underlying brake system issues. The offside rear brake pipe corrosion and grease buildup are also concerning, as corrosion can compromise the pipe’s structural integrity, leading to leaks or failure under pressure. Inspect the pipe for cracks, bulges, or signs of fluid leakage around the joints. The front coil spring modification upside down in 2025-04-25 is a major red flag, as it directly compromises the vehicle’s structural integrity and ride quality. A coil spring inverted in this manner will fail prematurely, leading to a harsh ride, excessive bouncing, and potential suspension failure. On a test drive, listen for clunking noises from the front suspension when driving over bumps, and check for uneven tyre wear, which may indicate misalignment or suspension misalignment caused by the faulty spring. The anti-roll bar linkage ball joint failure in the same test highlights the need for immediate attention to this component, as it can cause steering play, reduced handling stability, and premature wear to tyres and suspension bushes. Prioritise replacing the coil spring and the anti-roll bar ball joint as soon as possible, followed by a thorough inspection of the remaining suspension components, including the rear axle swivel pins and bushes, which have also been flagged as worn. Beyond these critical items, ensure the brake discs are professionally resurfaced or replaced to meet legal standards, as the current wear levels pose a safety risk. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and the wear observed, consider scheduling a full mechanical inspection by a qualified independent mechanic to assess the drivetrain, exhaust system, and other high-wear areas before proceeding with purchase.