2014 Vauxhall Astra 1.6L Diesel · LM64 VAF

The 2014 Vauxhall Astra presents an MOT history characterised by an unusual pattern of duplicated test entries, with each annual test recorded twice on the same date one showing a pass and one showing a failure. Both the most recent examination on 6 March 2026 and the previous test on 27 June 2024 follow this dual-entry format, alongside the 2023 pass on 8 June 2023. Crucially, none of these records contain any advisories, defects, or failure items, meaning that any underlying mechanical issues from the failure entries are not visible in the data provided. While the absence of recorded defects on the failure entries could suggest minor rectifiable items such as a blown bulb, a tyre below the legal tread threshold, or a momentary emissions spike, the lack of detail makes it impossible to confirm. For a prospective buyer, this demands direct verification with the testing station or via the V5C documentation to establish whether these failures represent recurring weak points or one-off trivial items. With 153,024 miles accumulated over approximately twelve years of service, this Astra has covered around 12,750 miles annually, placing it firmly in the high-mileage bracket for its age. This level of usage will have placed sustained demand on the major mechanical systems, particularly the clutch, dual-mass flywheel if fitted, turbocharger (if applicable to the specific derivative), suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake components including discs, pads, and caliper mechanisms. There are no unusual gaps in the testing history and no periods off the road, suggesting the vehicle has been in continuous use rather than subjected to long periods of standing which can introduce their own problems such as seized brakes, perished cooling hoses, or flat-spotted tyres. The steady annual accumulation indicates a working vehicle rather than a weekend or seasonal car, and this should be reflected in expectations regarding wear items requiring imminent attention. On a physical inspection, particular attention should be directed towards the clutch feel and biting point, listening for any judder or slip under load which would indicate wear on a high-mileage unit. The Astra's front suspension, particularly the lower wishbones, anti-roll bar drop links, and rear axle bushes on the estate or saloon variants, is known to deteriorate with sustained mileage, so listen for clonking noises over speed humps and uneven road surfaces. The steering should be checked for any vagueness or knocking on full lock, which can point to worn track rod ends or power steering rack deterioration. Brake pedal feel should be firm and progressive, with no sponginess or excessive travel, and the vehicle should pull up in a straight line without any severe pulling to either side which might indicate a binding caliper or a stuck handbrake mechanism. Given the cumulative mileage and the duplicated MOT entries, a pre-purchase inspection by an independent garage would be highly advisable. Particular focus during such an inspection should be placed on a compression test or oil pressure check to assess internal engine wear, a thorough examination of the cooling system including the radiator, water pump, and thermostat housing for any signs of leakage or seepage, and a check for any oil misting around the cam cover or valve cover gasket which is common on higher-mileage Astras. Underneath the vehicle, the subframe, brake pipes, and fuel lines should be inspected for any surface corrosion or weeping, particularly around the rear axle mounting points. Finally, verify the service history thoroughly, ensuring that cambelt and water pump replacement intervals have been observed according to Vauxhall's specified schedule, as neglect of this can lead to catastrophic engine damage on interference-fit units.