2002 Vauxhall Agila 1.2L Petrol · GF02 GSO

The most recent MOT test on 13 October 2025 resulted in a pass, although the same date also shows a failed entry, indicating that remedial work was carried out and successfully re-presented. The advisories carried through both entries relate to a deteriorated rear registration plate, a dim rear number plate light, and tyre condition issues, with both front tyres noted as worn close to the legal limit on the edge and both rear tyres showing slight damage, cracking, or perishing. Looking at the broader test history, the maintenance trend is broadly stable but with a clear pattern of wear-related advisories and one serious safety failure in October 2023 involving dangerously weakened front inner brake discs and a tyre below the legal tread limit. The 2024 test included a failed entry for a non-functioning nearside front position lamp and incorrect headlamp aim, both of which were rectified. The recurring theme across multiple tests is tyre wear on the front edges, an oil leak noted as not excessive but persistent, and brake component deterioration, suggesting the vehicle requires ongoing attention to consumables rather than suffering from any single catastrophic defect. The recorded mileage of 95,665 miles over approximately 24 years equates to an average of around 3,986 miles per year, which is exceptionally low and strongly suggests periods of significant standing or very limited use. This pattern of low annual mileage is typical of a second household car, a vehicle used only for short journeys, or one that has lain dormant for extended periods. Mechanically, such low usage often masks rather than prevents wear, as short trips do not allow the engine, exhaust system, and catalytic converter to reach optimal operating temperature, leading to moisture accumulation, oil dilution, and accelerated corrosion of underbody components. The gaps in the recorded MOT history visible between 2021 and 2022, and the relatively sparse coverage earlier, may also indicate periods when the vehicle was off the road, which is consistent with a low average mileage. Given the recurring advisories on front tyre wear, particularly on the inner and outer edges across the 2023, 2024, and 2025 tests, a prospective buyer should carefully inspect all four tyres for uneven wear patterns, as this can indicate tracking misalignment, worn suspension bushes, or top mount wear, all common on an Agila of this age. On a test drive, listen for suspension knocking or clonking over uneven surfaces, particularly from the front end, and pay attention to any pulling to one side, which would suggest geometry issues or brake bind. The advisories on front brake disc wear, pitted and scored surfaces, and the dangerous failure in 2023 relating to seriously weakened front inner brake discs mean the braking system warrants close physical inspection; a spongy pedal, vibration under braking, or a grinding sensation would indicate the discs and pads require immediate replacement. The persistent oil leak advisory since 2022, although described as not excessive, should be investigated before purchase, as oil leaks on ageing small-capacity engines such as the Agila's can originate from the cam cover gasket, sump gasket, or front and rear crankshaft seals, and prolonged leakage can accelerate ancillary belt deterioration and contaminate the clutch in manual variants. The offside front brake hose deterioration noted in 2024 and the corroded offside rear brake pipe from 2022 point to age-related degradation of the braking hydraulic system, which is typical of a vehicle exposed to winter road salts over many years; these components should be examined for cracking, swelling, and corrosion. Beyond the recorded defects, the low mileage and 24-year age make calendar-based servicing particularly important, so verify the age and condition of the 12V battery, inspect for corrosion on the brake calipers from standing, check all fluid levels and their replacement dates including coolant, brake fluid, and gearbox oil, and examine the exhaust system for rust and structural integrity. Finally, the tyre perishing and cracking advisories on the rear tyres are as much an age-related issue as a wear issue, so inspect the sidewalls carefully for any signs of rubber deterioration, as aged tyres can fail suddenly regardless of remaining tread depth.