2016 Vauxhall Vivaro 1.6L Diesel · GA55 SAS

The most recent MOT test results, conducted on 2025-11-19, show a mixed outcome with both passing and failing grades, indicating a pattern of recurring issues rather than a clear improvement or stability in maintenance. While the vehicle passed in November 2024, the subsequent MOT in November 2025 revealed persistent and escalating problems, particularly with the near-side front service brake fluctuating excessively—a major failure—and the offside track rod end ball joint exhibiting significant play, both of which suggest ongoing mechanical degradation. The advisories of corroded coil springs and brake pipe contamination further highlight wear and potential fluid ingress issues, which, if left unaddressed, could compromise road safety. The fact that these defects recurred despite a clean MOT in 2023 and 2022 underscores a need for urgent attention to prevent further deterioration. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 70,945 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,094 miles, which is within the expected range for a ten-year-old Vauxhall Vivaro, particularly if it has been used for mixed purposes including commercial or family transport. However, the absence of significantly higher mileage accumulation over the past year suggests either lighter use or prolonged periods of inactivity, which can exacerbate issues like corrosion, fluid degradation, and standing-related wear. For instance, standing for extended periods may lead to brake disc corrosion or caliper binding, as well as potential fluid leaks from corroded brake pipes or suspension components. The low mileage does not inherently mitigate the recurring mechanical failures documented in the MOT history, so the vehicle’s condition is more influenced by maintenance neglect or deferred servicing than by actual usage intensity. To proceed with a thorough inspection, the prospective buyer should prioritise checking the front brake system for signs of uneven wear, binding calipers, or pulsation, which could indicate warped discs or worn pads. Listen for any abnormal noises during a test drive, such as clunking from the suspension, particularly around the front track rod ends or anti-roll bar joints, which may reveal excessive play or joint failure. Inspect the brake pipes for leaks or corrosion, and verify that the brake fluid is free of contaminants and at the correct level, as fluid contamination can worsen brake performance and lead to failure. The corroded coil springs and brake pipe advisories from previous MOTs suggest that rust and fluid ingress are active concerns; visually inspect these components for further deterioration, and consider replacing any severely corroded parts to prevent structural failure. For the rear suspension and tyres, examine the near-side rear coil spring for signs of further corrosion or failure, as its previous advisory indicates ongoing degradation. The offside rear brake linings being worn thin and the near-side rear tyre showing edge wear are red flags that warrant immediate attention, as they may signal uneven braking or suspension misalignment. The tyre sidewall should be checked for cracking or perishing, which is more likely to occur with lower mileage but prolonged age, especially if the vehicle has been stored without use. Additionally, verify the battery health, as low mileage vehicles can sometimes suffer from standing corrosion or voltage drops due to prolonged inactivity. Finally, since the vehicle’s age and mileage are relatively low for its condition, the buyer should confirm that all service records have been kept up to date, particularly for fluid changes, as time-based degradation in fluids like brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid is inevitable and must be addressed before they reach their service intervals. If possible, obtain a full service history to confirm compliance with manufacturer recommendations for timing belts, suspension components, and other critical systems.