2016 Vauxhall Adam 1.2L Petrol · LE13 BUS

The most recent MOT test on the Vauxhall Adam, conducted on 2026-03-27, resulted in a passing grade despite several advisories and one minor failure. The vehicle’s maintenance history over the past three years shows a mixed but ultimately stable trend, with no repeated major defects beyond the known issues with the offside front coil spring and engine MIL. While there were two failed MOTs—one due to a fractured coil spring and another due to an engine fault—these were isolated incidents rather than a pattern of worsening mechanical condition. The advisories, particularly those related to track rod end ball joint dust covers, worn brake discs, and tyre wear, indicate routine wear that has been managed through the MOT process, though some components may require closer attention as they approach critical thresholds. The recorded mileage of 71,134 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of around 7,113 miles per year, which is typical for this class of car. Such mileage suggests moderate to heavy use, particularly in the later years where the vehicle may have accumulated more wear on consumables like brakes, suspension, and tyres. The absence of significant mileage gaps could imply either consistent driving patterns or periods of storage without substantial wear accumulation. However, the combination of high mileage and the presence of advisories—such as worn brake discs and coil spring issues—suggests that the suspension and braking systems have undergone more stress than a lower-mileage vehicle of similar age might have experienced, warranting a thorough inspection of these components. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to examine are the suspension and braking systems, given the recurring advisories and past failures. The track rod end ball joint dust covers, though currently preventing dirt ingress, may degrade further with continued use, potentially leading to increased wear on the ball joints themselves. Listen for any unusual clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension during a test drive, particularly when cornering or over bumps, as this could indicate worn or failing suspension components. The offside front coil spring failure in 2026 suggests that the remaining coil springs should be closely inspected for signs of fatigue, such as bulging or cracks, which could compromise ride quality and structural integrity. If the coil springs appear compromised, consider replacing them to prevent sudden failure, which could lead to severe handling issues or even vehicle instability. The brake discs, marked as worn, pitted, or scored in multiple MOTs, are another priority. Inspect the discs for uneven wear, corrosion, or glazing, which can indicate poor braking performance or the need for disc resurfacing or replacement. Listen for any grinding noises when applying the brakes, as this often signals worn brake pads or metal-on-metal contact with the discs. Test the brake pedal for firmness and responsiveness, ensuring there is no sponginess or excessive travel, which could signal fluid degradation or air in the hydraulic system. Given the age of the vehicle, check the condition of the brake fluid, which should be replaced every two years or as recommended by the manufacturer to prevent corrosion within the brake system. Additionally, verify that the brake pads are not excessively thin, as they may need replacement soon to maintain stopping performance. The TPMS light, noted in previous MOTs, should be addressed promptly to ensure accurate tyre pressure monitoring, as low or incorrect tyre pressure can affect handling, fuel efficiency, and tyre longevity. Lastly, while the tyre wear advisories are not urgent, the presence of cuts on the near-side front tyre warrants careful inspection of the tyre’s internal structure to ensure no underlying damage exists, as cuts can lead to blowouts if they reach the cord layer. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and usage, consider checking the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise tyre integrity and safety.