2012 Vauxhall Astra 1.7L Diesel · FN62 RYT

The most recent MOT on 18 March 2024 was a pass, albeit with advisories that the front and rear brake discs are approaching the wear limit. Compared with the preceding three‑year record this represents a modest improvement; earlier tests in 2022 and 2023 recorded several dangerous and major failures – notably thin brake linings, severely worn front tyres, a fractured off‑side rear coil spring and multiple lighting and washer‑system faults. The pattern suggests that the previous owner carried out remedial work to bring the car back to a road‑worthy state, but the presence of disc‑wear advisories indicates that the brake system is now on the cusp of requiring attention. At 105,352 mi the Astra averages roughly 7,500 mi per year, which is typical for a vehicle of its age. The mileage does not reveal any periods of unusually high use that would accelerate wear of major components, nor does it suggest long stretches of inactivity that could lead to ageing‑related degradation such as rubber perishing or battery sulphation. Nonetheless, a 14‑year‑old car with just over a hundred thousand miles will have experienced normal wear on suspension bushings, engine mounts and drivetrain bearings, and the cumulative mileage will be a factor when assessing the remaining life of consumables such as brake discs, tyres and the timing belt or chain. When you inspect the car, give particular focus to the braking system. Check the thickness of the front and rear brake pads and the condition of the discs; any pulsation, squeal or reduced pedal feel on a short test drive can indicate that the discs are close to the minimum allowable thickness and may need resurfacing or replacement soon. Examine all four tyres for tread depth, sidewall cracking and the presence of cuts, especially on the front left where a previous cut reached the ply – even if the tyre has been replaced, remnants of damage can re‑appear if the wheel is not correctly balanced. Verify that the off‑side rear coil spring is intact and that the suspension feels firm without excessive bounce or clunking over bumps, as a fractured spring can lead to uneven tyre wear and compromised handling. Finally, confirm that all lighting functions operate correctly – the near‑side front position lamp, off‑side rear registration plate lamp and off‑side front headlamp should all illuminate on both dipped and main beams. Test the windscreen washer system for adequate fluid delivery and spray pattern, and look for any signs of corrosion around the off‑side front sub‑frame mounting area; localized rust can progress to structural weakening if left unchecked. Given the age, have the battery load‑tested, replace the engine oil and coolant if service stamps are missing, and inspect the condition of the drive belts, hoses and rubber mounts. A thorough visual and auditory check of the suspension bushes, ball joints and steering rack for play or creaking will also help you gauge whether any of the major components that failed in earlier MOTs have been fully remedied or are likely to need attention in the near future.