2018 Vauxhall Vivaro 1.6L Diesel · FP67 PLN

The most recent DVSA examination on 10 February 2026 recorded a PASS with no defects or advisories, which is a positive indicator for any prospective buyer and suggests that the vehicle is currently in a roadworthy condition. Reviewing the broader MOT history, the pattern over the past four years is broadly stable, with three consecutive passes including a clean sheet at the most recent test. However, the earlier record does contain a notable failure on 10 January 2023 involving a fractured offside front coil spring and an inoperative nearside stop lamp, alongside a registration plate lamp minor defect. The coil spring failure is particularly relevant as it indicates that the front suspension has already required component-level intervention, and given the vehicle's age and accumulated mileage, further degradation of related suspension components such as bushes, drop links, shock absorbers and the opposite coil spring cannot be ruled out. The 2025 advisory regarding front tyre tread depth reducing to 3mm suggests that tyre replacement has since been carried out to allow the clean 2026 pass, but consistent tyre wear remains a recurring theme across the record. With an annualised mileage of approximately 12,400 miles over an eight-year service life, this Vivaro has covered considerably more ground than the typical average for its age bracket. The recorded mileage progression from the 2020 examinations through to the 2026 test reflects steady accumulation rather than extended periods of standing, which is generally favourable for mechanical components such as brake discs, callipers and the clutch, reducing the likelihood of corrosion-related seizure or fluid degradation through inactivity. The consistent year-on-year usage pattern suggests a working vehicle that has been maintained in regular service, which typically correlates with more reliable starting behaviour, healthier battery condition and fewer issues with perished rubber components. Nevertheless, the higher overall mileage does imply greater wear on consumable items including brake friction material, clutch assembly, dual-mass flywheel if applicable, and drivetrain mounts, all of which warrant closer attention at this stage of the vehicle's life. From a buyer's inspection perspective, a thorough physical examination should commence with a test drive conducted over varied road surfaces, paying particular attention to any front suspension clonks, knocking or excessive bouncing that could indicate worn bushes, deteriorating shock absorbers, or a further coil spring failure given the prior history. Listen for brake shudder under firm pedal application, which would suggest disc warping, and check for any pulling to one side that might indicate uneven pad wear or a binding calliper. The footbrake should feel progressive without sponginess, and the handbrake should hold firmly on an incline as these are common wear items on high-mileage commercial-derived platforms. Inspect the tyres not only for legal tread depth across the central three-quarters of the contact patch but also for uneven shoulder wear indicative of alignment or worn suspension components, and check the sidewalls carefully for cracking or perishing given the vehicle's age. Completing the assessment requires verification of the documented repair work from the January 2023 failure, ideally through invoices or service history confirming the replacement coil spring, stop lamp and any associated suspension components fitted at that time. Given that the vehicle is now eight years old, calendar-based servicing becomes increasingly relevant regardless of mileage, so all fluid conditions including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power steering fluid should be inspected for colour, clarity and contamination, with brake fluid ideally replaced every two years regardless of use due to its hygroscopic nature. The 12V battery should be load-tested as age-related failure is common beyond five years, and a look beneath the vehicle for any fresh fluid staining, particularly around the engine sump, coolant hoses, brake lines and front suspension assemblies will reveal any developing leaks. Finally, verify the service book stamps and cross-reference the MOT mileage readings to confirm consistency, while checking for any corrosion around the rear wheel arches, sills and underbody seams which are recognised vulnerable areas on Vivaro platforms of this generation, ensuring the vehicle's structural integrity remains sound for continued use.