2017 Vauxhall Vivaro 1.6L Diesel · LG17 TFO

The Vauxhall Vivaro’s most recent MOT, conducted just six months ago on 21 January 2026 at 126,345 miles, confirms it remains roadworthy without any defects. This clean pass follows a consistent pattern of compliance over the past two tests, though the November 2023 cycle reveals a concerning trend of repeated mechanical issues that were either deferred or overlooked. The failure on 22 November 2023—just hours before its eventual pass—highlighted a critical suspension fault (offside front shock absorber leak) and a worn track rod end, both of which suggest either delayed maintenance or a lack of proactive servicing. The absence of these faults in subsequent tests implies they were either repaired or temporarily masked, but the recurrence of brake disc wear on the offside front inner in November 2023—despite no further mention—warries scrutiny of whether this was a one-off oversight or part of a broader pattern of neglect. The vehicle’s mileage history indicates aggressive usage, averaging 14,038 miles annually over nine years, which is unusually high for a commercial van of this age. The gap between the February 2023 (85,508 miles) and November 2023 (99,363 miles) tests—just nine months but covering 13,855 miles—suggests either intensive commercial operation or prolonged periods of inactivity followed by rapid accumulation. The most recent MOT, at 126,345 miles, was due on 21 January 2025, yet it was not tested until January 2026, a full year late. While this delay does not automatically invalidate the vehicle’s condition, it raises questions about whether critical components—such as suspension or brakes—were serviced within the intervening period. The repeated MOT failures in November 2023, despite the vehicle passing the following day, further imply that some issues may have been deferred rather than resolved. A buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the front suspension, particularly the offside shock absorber and track rod end, as these were flagged as serious faults in November 2023. The offside front brake disc, noted for wear and scoring in 2023, should be examined for uneven thickness or structural compromise, while the rear brake system—though not explicitly failed—demands verification of binding or uneven pad wear, given the van’s high mileage. Corrosion at wheel arches, subframe, and suspension mounts should also be assessed, as this age and mileage increase the risk of hidden structural degradation. The windscreen damage, while not failing the MOT, may obscure critical blind spots, and the discoloured rear indicators suggest potential electrical or wiring issues that could escalate. Finally, the absence of service records means no evidence exists to confirm whether fluid changes (brakes, power steering, transmission) or timing belt inspections were conducted at recommended intervals.