2016 Vauxhall Adam 1.2L Petrol · LE14 ROB

A pattern of repeat advisories across the braking and fluid systems, combined with two failed MOTs in the last five years, defines the mechanical profile of this 2016 Vauxhall Adam. The most recent test on 2026-07-07 produced a pass, but with an advisory noting perishing damage across all four tyres, suggesting age-related rubber degradation rather than wear. Looking back through the record, the earlier pass on 2025-07-09 was preceded by a failure on the same date due to a fractured nearside front coil spring and an inoperative windscreen washer, both categorised as Major defects. A further failure occurred in 2022-07-11 when an offside front shock absorber was found to have a serious fluid leak, again a Major item. Taken together, the record reflects a car that has experienced two distinct suspension failures four years apart, alongside persistent braking and fluid advisories that have not fully resolved between tests. The overall trend is not one of steady decline, but rather of intermittent component failures layered on top of chronic advisories that recur test after test. With 37,987 miles recorded over approximately ten years, the Adam averages around 3,800 miles annually, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age. The mileage has accumulated gradually without any obvious gaps in the MOT testing record, with tests consistently recorded between mid-2021 and mid-2026, suggesting the vehicle has remained in regular use rather than laid up for extended periods. Lower annual mileage of this nature typically results in less wear on major drivetrain components, but it can also bring its own concerns, as prolonged standing periods can dry out rubber seals, encourage corrosion in brake calipers and discs, and allow moisture to accumulate in fluids. The recorded mileage progression between tests appears consistent and does not raise concerns about clocking or unexplained gaps in usage. Given the documented coil spring failure on the nearside front in 2025, the prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the suspension on a test drive. Listen for any clonking or knocking from the front end over speed humps and uneven road surfaces, and feel for uneven ride quality or a harsh, crashy response that could indicate a weakened or fractured coil spring that has not yet broken completely. The 2022 shock absorber fluid leak on the offside front warrants a check for any residual staining on the strut body or top mount, along with any bounce or oscillation when pressing down on each front corner. Brake pedal feel should also be evaluated carefully, as the 2021 advisory noted imbalanced front braking and fluctuating service brake performance, while the 2022 advisories flagged pitting and scoring on both front discs. On a test drive, expect a firm, progressive pedal with no excessive travel, judder under braking, or pulling to either side, any of which would suggest the disc condition has progressed beyond the advisory threshold. The fluid-related advisories from 2021, including a coolant leak and fuel cap seal perishing, suggest that hoses, seals, and gaskets in this area of the car have been ageing. A thorough pre-purchase inspection should include a visual check for any fresh coolant staining on hoses, the radiator, and the expansion tank, as well as verification that the fuel cap seals correctly and does not allow any smell of petrol at rest. The 2025 washer non-function failure is a simple item but worth confirming works on both front and rear screens, as washer system faults can occasionally indicate electrical or switch issues beyond a blocked nozzle. Finally, the recent tyre perishing advisory means all four tyres should be inspected closely for sidewall cracking, and budgeting for a full replacement set is sensible regardless of remaining tread depth, given that the MOT examiner has already flagged rubber degradation across the car.