2012 Vauxhall Astra 1.7L Diesel · FN62 RYB

The most recent MOT, carried out on 23 June 2026, was passed with no recorded defects, and the preceding five years have been largely free of serious findings. The only recorded failures relate to a rear registration‑plate lamp and a near‑side front headlamp aim, both of which are minor lighting issues that were rectified and have not recurred. Overall the maintenance trend appears stable, with the vehicle consistently meeting the basic safety and emissions standards required for road use. At 208 956 miles the Astra has accumulated an average of roughly 14 900 miles per year, well above the typical UK usage of 8‑10 000 miles annually. This high kilometre count suggests the car has been driven extensively, which accelerates wear on consumables such as tyre tread, suspension bushings, engine bearings, clutch plates and brake components. There are no obvious gaps in the MOT record that would indicate prolonged periods of inactivity, so the wear is likely to be progressive rather than the result of long storage cycles. When you inspect the vehicle, give particular attention to the lighting system to confirm that all lamps operate correctly and that headlamp aim is within legal limits; a mis‑aimed headlamp can cause glare and reduced night‑time visibility. During a test drive listen for any clunking or knocking from the front and rear suspension, which may indicate worn ball joints, control‑arm bushings or deteriorating coil springs. Check for uneven tyre wear, sidewall cracking or hardening, as high mileage combined with age can cause the rubber to perish even if tread depth appears acceptable. Examine the brakes for any pulsation, shudder or squeal, and inspect the discs for excessive rust or scoring that could compromise stopping performance. Given the car’s age and mileage, also verify the condition of the 12 V battery, ensuring it holds charge and shows no signs of terminal corrosion. Inspect the engine bay for any oil, coolant or power‑steering fluid leaks, and consider whether the timing belt (if fitted) has been replaced according to the manufacturer’s interval, as failure could be catastrophic. Finally, look for any signs of chassis or under‑tray rust, especially around wheel arches and suspension mounting points, and confirm that the service history includes regular oil changes and filter replacements to support the high‑usage nature of this Astra.