2014 Vauxhall Insignia 1.8L Petrol · FN14 LDJ

A single fractured rear coil spring failure is the defining mechanical event in this Insignia's recent history, though the broader picture is one of largely solid roadworthiness. The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 17 April 2026 with no advisories recorded, and similarly clean passes in 2024 and 2023 suggest a chassis and underbody in reasonable order. The one blip, a Major defect for an offside rear coil spring fracture on 24 April 2025, was promptly addressed (the car passed five days later on 29 April 2025 with no defects recorded), indicating either a replacement was carried out or the component was in a borderline state that resolved. Coil spring failures on Insignias of this generation are not unheard of, particularly on higher-mileage examples, but a single isolated fracture followed by clean passes does not necessarily point to systemic suspension deterioration. With around 94,633 miles on the clock over twelve years, this Insignia has averaged roughly 7,886 miles annually, which sits squarely within typical expectations for a car of its age and class. There are no significant gaps in the MOT testing record from 2023 onwards, suggesting continuous use rather than long periods off the road, and the consistent year-on-year attendance at test means wear-related defects are likely to have surfaced naturally rather than being masked by inactivity. This kind of steady, moderate usage tends to be kinder to seals, gaskets, and rubber components than low-mileage short-trip driving, while still leaving suspension and braking consumables as the predictable wear items at this mileage bracket. For a prospective buyer, the fractured rear coil spring is worth treating as a prompt for a focused inspection of the remaining spring and the rest of the rear suspension geometry. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking over uneven road surfaces, particularly at low speed over speed humps or potholes, as a fractured or weakened coil spring often produces an audible metallic thud as the broken coils separate under load. Visually inspect both rear springs for uneven ride height, which would indicate a sagging or compromised spring, and check that the car sits level at the rear with no obvious lean toward the offside. The rear dampers and top mounts should also be assessed for any signs of fluid misting or perished rubber, given the additional stress placed on them when a coil spring fails. Beyond the recorded suspension issue, the otherwise clean MOT history means attention should fall on the usual Insignia wear points appropriate to this mileage band. On a test drive, evaluate the front suspension for any knocking or clonking that could suggest worn drop links, control arm bushes, or anti-roll bar bushings, all of which are common wear items on this platform. Brake pedal feel should be firm and progressive, with no excessive travel or judder under heavy braking that might indicate warped front discs. Steering should remain precise and self-centring, with no vibration through the wheel at speed that could point to imbalanced wheels or worn front suspension components. Finally, a thorough underside inspection for any corrosion on brake lines, subframe, and suspension arms is worthwhile given the vehicle's age, even though no advisories of this nature have yet been recorded on the test history.