2011 Vauxhall Astra 1.7L Diesel · FW11 FAF

The Vauxhall Astra’s most recent MOT test on 2025-11-28 confirms it remains roadworthy, though the record reveals a concerning pattern of repeated mechanical and electrical failures. The 2023 test on 2023-08-21 stands out as a failure, flagging a fractured offside rear coil spring—a critical suspension defect that should have been addressed immediately. While the vehicle passed the subsequent 2024 and 2025 tests, the absence of any corrective action for the spring suggests either a rushed repair or an oversight. The 2023 failure also included non-critical advisories like headlamp lens contamination and worn brake discs, which were not repeated in later tests, implying either replacement or temporary masking of symptoms. The trend indicates intermittent neglect rather than consistent upkeep, with structural and electrical components bearing the brunt of deferred maintenance. The recorded mileage of 118,901 miles over 15 years aligns with typical usage, averaging around 8,000 miles annually. However, the gap between the 2023 failure (103,084 miles) and the next test (103,085 miles) is suspicious—suggesting either a deliberate reset or a period of minimal use. The jump from 103,085 to 107,383 miles between August 2023 and October 2024 (4,298 miles in 14 months) is unusually rapid for a vehicle with known suspension and electrical faults, raising questions about whether critical issues were ignored during this period. The most recent test at 118,901 miles, just 8 months ago, indicates the car has been driven regularly since, but the lack of pre-test repairs for the 2023 suspension failure remains a red flag. A buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the rear suspension, particularly the offside coil spring and associated components, as the 2023 failure suggests this may have been patched rather than properly replaced. The front inner brake disc, flagged as worn and pitted in 2023, should be checked for consistent thickness and surface integrity—recurring brake issues often indicate inadequate servicing. Electrical faults, such as the non-working offside headlamp and rear fog lamp from 2023, warrant verification that these have been permanently resolved, as intermittent failures can indicate wiring or connector degradation. Finally, the windscreen wipers, which failed to clear effectively in 2023, should be tested in wet conditions to confirm they now operate reliably, as rubber degradation is common in older vehicles. Rust penetration around the rear suspension and body seams should also be examined, as the vehicle’s age increases the risk of structural compromise.