2012 Vauxhall Astra 1.2L Diesel · FN62 RYR

The latest MOT test for this 2012 Vauxhall Astra, conducted on 2026-09-01, shows no recorded defects, marking a return to a clean pass following a previous failure in 2020. The overall maintenance trend over the past decade is relatively stable, with the vehicle passing most MOTs and only encountering minor issues—primarily related to tyre wear and minor lighting faults—before achieving a full pass in September 2026. The presence of advisories in earlier tests, such as worn brake discs and tyre edge wear, suggests that while the vehicle has been maintained within legal limits, there have been signs of gradual wear progression on consumables and components that require closer attention over time. The recorded mileage of 99,077 miles for a vehicle of this age—approximately 7,077 miles per year—falls within the expected range for a car of its class, particularly if it has been used for moderate daily commuting or occasional longer trips. The consistent annual mileage indicates a steady usage pattern, which typically means wear is distributed evenly across components like tyres, brakes, and suspension. However, the gaps between MOT tests—such as the nearly five-year interval between 2016 and 2021—could imply periods of inactivity, which may have contributed to minor issues like tyre perishing or standing corrosion on components like brake discs or suspension linkages. Rapid mileage accumulation could accelerate wear on fluids, seals, and internal components, so any sudden spikes in usage should prompt a thorough inspection. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination of this vehicle are the brake system and tyres, given the recurring advisories from earlier MOTs. The brake discs, particularly the rear discs, show signs of wear and pitting, which may indicate prolonged high-load braking or uneven friction material usage. During a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, a grinding or squeaking noise when braking, or any signs of brake fluid contamination or overheating. Check for corrosion or binding on the rear calipers, as standing corrosion can cause caliper pistons to seize, leading to reduced braking efficiency. Additionally, inspect the brake discs for warping or excessive thickness reduction, which could compromise stopping performance. Tyres should be thoroughly examined for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can weaken the tyre structure and pose a safety risk, especially if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods. The edge wear advisories from previous MOTs suggest the tyres may have been underinflated or driven on one side more than the other, leading to uneven tread loss; verify tread depth and check for signs of dry-staining or internal damage. Beyond the above, given the vehicle’s age and the low annual mileage, focus on the following checks to ensure long-term roadworthiness. The 12-volt battery should be tested for voltage output at rest and under load, as low mileage can lead to battery degradation from prolonged idling or infrequent use. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion, which can impede electrical conductivity and cause starting issues. The suspension system, particularly the rear, should be examined for signs of bush wear or coil spring failure, as the advisories may hint at underlying issues in the control arms or struts. Check for excessive play in the suspension linkages or unusual clunking noises when driving over bumps, which could indicate worn suspension bushes or damaged coil springs. Fluid levels, including brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil, should be checked for contamination or sludge buildup, as fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. Given the vehicle’s age, a comprehensive service history should be reviewed to confirm that time-based maintenance, such as valve adjustments, timing belt replacement, or spark plug servicing, has been conducted according to manufacturer recommendations. Finally, verify that any items removed from the driver’s view during the 2016 MOT—such as mirrors, windscreen, or interior components—have been reinstalled securely, as improperly secured items can pose a safety hazard.