2018 Vauxhall Vivaro 1.6L Diesel · GL53 AES

The most recent MOT test on this Vauxhall Vivaro took place on 15 December 2025 and resulted in a fail, primarily due to two major defects on the nearside front track rod end ball joint, which exhibited excessive play, and a fractured or broken nearside rear coil spring, both of which are significant items relating to steering integrity and suspension. A minor defect was also recorded for an inoperative nearside registration plate lamp. While the test on the same date shows a pass with no defects recorded, this typically reflects a retest once the major items had been addressed, meaning the vehicle should be considered as having had substantial recent repair work carried out to the front suspension and rear spring. Looking back over the broader history, the 2024 test was clean, but the 2023 and earlier 2025 tests carried advisories for worn front brake pads and a nearside front tyre worn on edge, suggesting a developing pattern of wear on the braking and suspension components. The overall trend is therefore one of progressive rather than improving condition, with the latest test bringing serious structural and steering-related defects to light that demand close scrutiny. With 92,812 miles recorded over approximately eight years of service, this Vivaro has covered an annual average of around 11,600 miles, which sits broadly within the typical range for a commercial vehicle of its age and class. There is no evidence of any unusually large gaps in the recorded mileage between tests, suggesting the vehicle has been in regular use rather than left standing for extended periods, which is generally beneficial for the preservation of seals, brakes and drivetrain components. However, the mileage is sufficient to expect meaningful wear on the original major mechanical assemblies, and any component that has been replaced under the recent failure should be checked for the quality and provenance of the parts fitted. It is also worth noting that commercial vehicles of this type are often worked hard, so a thorough service history verification is essential to confirm that routine maintenance has been carried out at appropriate intervals. Given the nature of the recent failures, particular attention should be paid to the nearside front steering and suspension assembly. A track rod end with excessive play indicates worn or fatigued steering linkage, and even if it has been replaced, the buyer should inspect for any play or knocking on a test drive, particularly when turning at low speed over uneven surfaces, and check for uneven inner or outer tyre wear on the nearside front wheel. The fractured rear coil spring is a common issue on this generation of Vivaro and is often linked to corrosion fatigue or overload; any replacement spring should be confirmed as a quality part, and the offside rear should be inspected for early signs of similar fatigue, listening for audible clonks or feeling a sagging or uneven stance at the rear under load. The opposite rear coil should also be examined, as when one spring fails, the paired component often follows shortly afterwards. Beyond the specific items flagged by the MOT history, a prospective buyer should carry out age and mileage appropriate checks across the vehicle. With eight years of service, the original timing belt service interval is likely approaching or overdue if not already completed, and verification of the cambelt or chain replacement record is strongly advised, along with confirmation of recent coolant, brake fluid and automatic or manual gearbox oil changes in line with calendar-based servicing schedules. The tyres should be inspected closely for age-related sidewall perishing and cracking, as commercial vehicles can suffer dry rot even where tread depth remains adequate, and any wheels showing uneven wear may indicate lingering alignment issues following the steering repair. Brake discs should be examined for corrosion or lipping, particularly if the vehicle has stood for any period, and the calipers checked for binding, while the 12V battery should be tested for state of health given its age. Finally, a thorough underneath inspection for corrosion to the rear axle, subframes and exhaust mounting points is highly recommended, as these vans are known to suffer structural corrosion with age.