2013 Vauxhall Antara 2.2L Diesel · J6 VGC

The Vauxhall Antara’s most recent MOT history reveals a concerning pattern of repeated failures despite no recorded defects on the test dates themselves. The vehicle failed twice in October 2025—just one day apart at identical mileages—before passing the following day, a sequence that suggests either a temporary oversight in test conditions or a persistent underlying issue that narrowly avoided detection. The lack of specific advisories or defects in the official records means the failures were likely due to minor administrative or procedural anomalies rather than mechanical failures, but this inconsistency warrants scrutiny. The October 2024 tests also show identical mileages and a failed then passed outcome, reinforcing that the vehicle’s roadworthiness has not deteriorated significantly over time but remains unpredictable without deeper inspection. Mileage progression indicates typical usage for a vehicle of this age, with roughly 9,400 miles annually over the last three years. The gap between the 2023 and 2024 tests spans 13,000 miles, suggesting consistent driving habits rather than prolonged neglect. However, the identical mileages on the 2024 and 2025 failures—116,299 and 122,412—imply the vehicle may have sat briefly between tests, possibly for minor servicing or adjustments not logged in the MOT. There’s no evidence of aggressive mileage accumulation or extended periods of inactivity, but the lack of service records means critical intervals for suspension, drivetrain, or emissions systems could have been overlooked. Given the repeated failures without clear mechanical defects, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the braking system, particularly the rear calipers and pads, as binding brakes are a common cause of MOT failures. The suspension components—including coil springs, bushes, and shock absorbers—should be examined for wear or corrosion, especially in a vehicle of this age where rust can compromise structural integrity. The exhaust system and emissions controls should also be checked for leaks or failing catalytic converters, as these are frequent sources of test failures. Finally, a thorough underbody inspection for corrosion around the wheel arches, sills, and subframe is essential, as this model is prone to rust-related failures that may not always appear in MOT records.