2018 Vauxhall Insignia 1.6L Diesel · FN68 SPV

The latest MOT test conducted on 7 May 2026 resulted in a pass with no defects recorded. Evaluating the overall maintenance trend, the vehicle shows a stable and improving trajectory. Following a failure in April 2022 regarding windscreen wiper effectiveness, the vehicle has achieved four consecutive clean passes. This suggests that the previous advisories, specifically the nearside rear tyre nail and the nearside front road wheel distortion, have been adequately rectified, as no subsequent issues regarding wheel integrity or tyre condition have been flagged in the following four years of testing. The recorded mileage of 54,180 miles indicates an average annual usage of approximately 6,772 miles. For an eight-year-old Vauxhall Insignia, this represents relatively low to moderate usage, which is generally favourable for the longevity of major drivetrain components, the engine, and the transmission. While this lower mileage suggests less mechanical wear on consumables like brake pads and clutch components, it also implies the vehicle may have been used for shorter journeys or spent periods stationary, which can lead to different types of degradation compared to high-mileage motorway vehicles. During a physical inspection and test drive, you should pay close attention to age-related wear that occurs independently of mileage. Specifically, inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, as rubber components can degrade due to ozone exposure and age even if the tread remains deep. Given the 2022 advisory regarding a distorted inner rim on the nearside front wheel, it is essential to check for any steering wheel shimmy or vibrations at various speeds to ensure the wheel is true and the suspension geometry has not been compromised. Additionally, check the brake discs for heavy corrosion or pitting, which can result from intermittent use, and ensure the calipers are not binding. Finally, verify the vehicle's service history to confirm that maintenance has been performed on a calendar basis rather than solely on mileage. Fluids such as brake fluid and engine coolant should be checked for degradation, and the 12V battery should be tested for its ability to hold a charge, as eight years is a significant age for automotive electrical components. Listen carefully for any suspension clunks or knocks during the test drive, which could indicate perished rubber bushes or worn coil springs. Ensuring that oil changes have been carried out at regular intervals despite the low mileage is crucial for maintaining the long-term health of the engine.