2017 Vauxhall Astra 1.4L Petrol · FP67 VML

The most recent DVSA MOT test on this 2017 Vauxhall Astra was conducted on 23 October 2025, resulting in a pass with a single advisory relating to rear brake disc wear, specifically noting pitting or scoring that was not considered seriously weakened at the time of inspection. When reviewing the broader test history, the overall maintenance trend appears broadly stable but with a consistent pattern of advisory items rather than outright failures. The 2022 test stands out as completely clean with no advisories, but every test since then has flagged rear brake disc deterioration, and the 2024 test included a fail for headlamp beam image and a non-functional windscreen washer, both of which were repaired prior to the same-day retest pass. The recurrence of the same rear brake disc advisories across four consecutive tests suggests progressive wear rather than an isolated observation, and any prospective buyer should treat this as an ongoing maintenance issue rather than a one-off finding. With approximately 51,120 miles recorded against a nine-year-old vehicle, the Astra is running at roughly 5,680 miles per year, which is notably below the average for a car of its age. This lower annual mileage could indicate periods of light use, or alternatively extended standing between journeys, both of which carry distinct mechanical implications. Low-mileage or infrequently driven vehicles commonly suffer from degraded brake fluid through moisture absorption, perishing of tyres from age rather than wear, deterioration of the 12V battery due to incomplete charging cycles, and corrosion on brake discs and calipers from sitting idle in damp conditions. The fact that the rear brake discs have shown persistent pitting and scoring advisories across multiple tests is consistent with exactly this pattern of underuse, as corrosion pitting on friction surfaces typically develops on vehicles that see insufficient regular driving to keep the discs cleaned through normal braking action. The recurring rear brake disc advisories warrant close attention during any physical inspection and test drive. A buyer should examine both rear discs for visible ridging, deep scoring, and blueing from heat cycling, and should check the rear calipers for any signs of seizing or binding, which would manifest as a dragging sensation, uneven braking effort, or hot wheels after driving. On a test drive, listen for any graunching or grinding from the rear axle under light braking, and feel for any pulsing through the brake pedal, which would indicate disc runout from uneven wear. Given that the disc wear has been flagged on the inner face specifically at the 2024 test, it would be prudent to budget for rear brake disc replacement in the near term, likely accompanied by fresh rear brake pads and possibly caliper inspection or refurbishment. The 2021 advisories for worn front and rear brake pads and the 2020 advisory for a worn offside front tyre suggest that consumable braking and tyre components have been renewed on a sensible schedule, though the 2021 note regarding cracking or perishing on a rear tyre is a reminder that rubber components degrade with age regardless of tread depth. Beyond the documented advisories, a buyer of this low-mileage Astra should carry out several age and usage-related checks that would not necessarily be captured in an MOT test. Inspect all four tyres, including any spare, for sidewall cracking, perishing, or UV damage, as tyres over five years old can lose integrity even with adequate tread. Verify the condition and state of charge of the 12V battery, particularly if it is the original unit, and check the production date stamp. Confirm when the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid were last changed, as these are time-sensitive services that should be undertaken at manufacturer-recommended intervals regardless of mileage. Examine the underside and suspension components, including bushes, coil springs, and drop links, for corrosion, cracking, or perished rubber, and check for any fluid leaks from the engine, power steering, or transmission. Finally, verify that the service book contains evidence of regular annual servicing, as even low-mileage vehicles require oil and filter changes at calendar-based intervals to protect the engine and maintain warranty or goodwill support from any franchised dealer.