2015 Vauxhall Insignia 2.0L Diesel · HB09 MLB

Suspension degradation has become the primary mechanical concern for this vehicle, as evidenced by a recent failure and subsequent pass on 5 December 2024. While the record was clear in 2019 and 2020, the trend has shifted toward structural wear, specifically involving a fractured offside rear coil spring and oil misting from both front shock absorbers. This indicates a transition from routine consumable wear to more significant suspension component fatigue. The recorded mileage of 129,475 miles over an eleven-year period represents an average annual accumulation of approximately 11,770 miles. This is a typical usage profile for a vehicle of this age and class, suggesting consistent road use rather than periods of prolonged inactivity. Mechanically, this level of mileage typically correlates with increased wear on drivetrain components, suspension linkages, and braking systems, which aligns with the defects noted in the later MOT history. Particular attention must be paid to the front suspension during a physical inspection and test drive. The recorded oil misting on both front shock absorbers suggests the seals are beginning to fail, which may lead to reduced damping efficiency. During the test drive, listen for knocks or clunks when traversing uneven surfaces and observe if the vehicle exhibits excessive bouncing or instability after hitting a bump. The previous failure of the offside rear coil spring should be verified to ensure the replacement part was fitted correctly and that the nearside spring shows no similar signs of fatigue. The braking system and tyre condition have been recurring points of interest in the MOT history, with multiple advisories for thin brake pads and worn tyres across various axles. A thorough check of the remaining brake pad thickness is necessary to determine if the components flagged in 2021 and 2023 have been replaced. Additionally, inspect the inner and outer edges of the tyres for uneven wear, as previous advisories for edge wear can indicate misalignment or worn suspension bushes that may require rectification.