2012 Vauxhall Astra 1.7L Diesel · LL62 LWT

The Vauxhall Astra’s most recent MOT test on 2026-02-19 confirms it remains roadworthy, though the immediate preceding test on 2026-02-17—just two days earlier—was a failure without recorded defects. This anomaly suggests either a minor administrative oversight or a temporary test centre error, as no mechanical issues were logged. The vehicle has otherwise passed all prior tests since 2023, with no recurring advisories or major faults. However, the repeated failures at roughly the same mileage (108,471 and 108,468) in October 2024 warrant scrutiny of whether the tester overlooked subtle but critical conditions, such as minor brake binding or suspension wear that didn’t meet failure thresholds. The overall trend is stable, but the lack of defects in failures raises questions about whether the vehicle has been driven with deferred maintenance. The recorded mileage of 111,485 miles over 14 years aligns closely with typical usage for this model, averaging around 8,000 miles annually. There are no prolonged gaps suggesting neglect, nor any rapid spikes that would indicate excessive wear. The most notable pattern is the two consecutive MOT tests in February 2026, separated by only 11 miles, which is unusual but not inherently concerning unless paired with other irregularities. The October 2024 tests, just three miles apart, similarly show no mechanical progression, reinforcing the possibility of procedural inconsistencies rather than worsening mechanical conditions. Given the absence of recorded defects, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of high-wear components that often fail without obvious warning signs. Focus on the suspension—particularly rear bushes and coil springs—for excessive play or corrosion, as these rarely trigger MOT failures until they become severe. The braking system, including rear calipers and discs, should be checked for uneven wear or binding, especially since the October 2024 failures occurred without explicit mention of brake faults. Structural integrity, particularly around wheel arches and sills, should also be examined for hidden corrosion, as this is a common silent risk in older models. Tyre condition, despite no MOT failures, should be verified, as failing twice on tread depth suggests basic upkeep may have been inconsistent.