2006 Vauxhall Astravan 1.7L Diesel · FV06 FOK

This Vauxhall Astra Van’s most recent MOT test on 2024-10-04 confirms it remains roadworthy, though the record reveals an inconsistent pattern of failures just before passing. The two consecutive failures in October 2022 and October 2023—both at the same mileage (175,686 and 180,185 respectively)—suggest a recurring issue that required correction before passing. The absence of defects in the 2024 test implies those problems were resolved, but the lack of advisory notes means we cannot determine whether the fixes were temporary or permanent. Without further detail on the specific failures, there is no clear trend of worsening or improving condition, though the repeated retests indicate a history of last-minute corrections rather than proactive maintenance. The recorded mileage of 183,956 miles over nearly 20 years averages around 9,200 miles annually, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. The gaps between tests are consistent at one year, with no evidence of extended periods of disuse or rapid mileage accumulation. However, the repeated failures at nearly identical mileages—suggesting the same underlying issue—raise questions about whether the vehicle was driven until it just passed MOT thresholds rather than being maintained on a regular schedule. This pattern implies a lack of preventative care, which could accelerate wear on critical components. Given the history, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system, particularly the rear calipers and discs, as these were likely the cause of the repeated failures. The suspension—especially rear bushes and coil springs—should be checked for excessive wear or corrosion, as these components often fail in tandem with brake issues in high-mileage vans. Structural integrity, particularly around the rear axle and sills, warrants close examination for rust penetration or frame damage, which could compromise safety. Tyre condition should also be verified, as the absence of advisory notes in recent tests does not guarantee they were replaced at the correct intervals. Finally, the exhaust system and emissions controls should be inspected for leaks or corrosion, as these are common failure points in older vehicles.