2006 Vauxhall Signum 1.9L Diesel · KT06 CTF

A Vauxhall Signum from 2006 carrying 74,182 miles presents a MOT history that is broadly favourable, anchored by a run of clean passes at the 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024 tests, with the most recent examination on 17 September 2025 concluding in a pass subject only to an advisory note regarding slight cracking on the offside rear tyre. The single failure in the record occurred on 25 March 2019, where a dangerous defect was recorded for nearside front brake pads worn below 1.5 mm, and that same test also logged advisories for corroded brake pipework across the vehicle and a minor exhaust gas leak from the front flexi section. Notably, the brake and exhaust advisories from 2019 have not reappeared in any subsequent test, which is consistent with remedial work having been carried out, though MOT records do not confirm the nature of any repairs undertaken between visits. There is no pattern of escalating or recurring structural, suspension or braking concerns across the seven recorded tests, and the advisory recorded in 2025 is a minor item rather than a precursor to imminent component failure. The recorded mileage of 74,182 miles against a vehicle of approximately twenty years of age equates to an average annual accumulation of around 3,700 miles, which is markedly below typical usage for a car of this vintage. The MOT history does not contain mileage readings, so it is not possible from the official data alone to verify this figure or to confirm that the odometer has not been subject to discrepancy; any prospective buyer should satisfy themselves independently on this point. The relatively low annual mileage raises the prospect of extended periods of standing, which on a Signum of this age can lead to degradation of rubber components, drying of suspension bushes, oxidation of brake hydraulic systems and surface corrosion of underbody components even where the car has not covered high distances. Equally, light use reduces wear on major drivetrain and clutch components, so the overall mechanical exposure of this particular vehicle is likely lower than its age alone would suggest. For a prospective buyer, the historical brake pipe advisory is the single most important item to investigate, as the Signum chassis is known to be vulnerable to underfloor corrosion affecting the brake lines, and the 2019 advisory noted corrosion across the system. A thorough physical inspection should focus on the condition of all visible brake pipes, particularly along the underbody and rear axle, checking for any surface rust, flaking or evidence of recent replacement. The front flexi section was also flagged for a minor exhaust leak in 2019, so the current exhaust should be examined for signs of black soot deposits around the front joint, hissing on cold start, or a faint exhaust note change under load, all of which would indicate a renewed leak at the flexible coupling. The 2025 advisory for tyre cracking on the offside rear warrants immediate replacement regardless of remaining tread depth, as perished rubber compromises grip in wet conditions and is not rectifiable. On a test drive, particular attention should be paid to the braking system given the historical pad and pipework concerns. The pedal should feel firm and progressive without excessive travel, and any sponginess, grinding noise or pulling to one side under braking would suggest seized caliper slides, perished flexible hoses or further pipework deterioration. Suspension components warrant close scrutiny too, as the Signum's front lower wishbones, anti-roll bar drop links and rear trailing arm bushes are prone to wear with age regardless of mileage; listen for clonks or knocks over speed humps and uneven road surfaces, and check for vague or wandering steering behaviour. Finally, given the low recorded mileage and the likelihood of intermittent use, inspect the condition of all fluids for discolouration, examine the exhaust undertray and rear subframe mounting points for any surface corrosion that may have developed during standing periods, and confirm that the cooling system and ancillary drive belts appear in serviceable condition, as age-related degradation of these items is typical on a vehicle that has seen two decades of service.