2014 Vauxhall Adam 1.4L Petrol · LP14 LTT

The most recent MOT on 22 January 2026 was passed, with only an advisory concerning the near‑side rear child seat obstructing a full adult‑belt inspection. Over the six‑year MOT record the vehicle has consistently passed, but the number of advisories has risen, particularly relating to front tyre perishing, brake‑pad wear and deteriorating ball‑joint dust‑covers. This pattern indicates a maintenance trend that is beginning to deteriorate rather than improve, and the recurring nature of the front‑wheel issues suggests that wear items are approaching the end of their service life. At 54,582 mi for a 2014 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 4,500 mi, which is well below the typical UK average of 7‑10 000 mi per year. Such low utilisation often points to long periods of inactivity or very gentle use, both of which can be as consequential as high mileage. Prolonged standing can promote tyre perishing, battery sulphation and corrosion of suspension bushings, while the modest mileage means that wear on drivetrain components may be less advanced but could be masked by age‑related degradation. The front tyre advisories – “slightly damaged/cracking or perishing” on both nearside and offside wheels and a history of edge wear – are a clear sign that the tyre carcasses are ageing. Even if tread depth appears acceptable, the sidewalls may be compromised, leading to sudden loss of pressure or a blow‑out under load. A thorough visual inspection of the tyre sidewalls for cracks, dry rot and bulges is essential, and the buyer should confirm that the tyre pressure retention is reliable. The repeated “thin” brake‑pad advisories on both front discs mean the pads are likely within a few millimetres of the minimum thickness; the buyer should listen for a high‑pitched squeal or feel a pulsation when applying the brakes, and arrange for the pads – and possibly the discs, which can develop scoring after prolonged use – to be measured and replaced if they are below the legal limit. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, the buyer should also check items that deteriorate with time rather than distance. Inspect the suspension bushings and ball‑joint dust‑covers for cracks or missing rubber, as the recorded damage to the outer track‑rod dust‑covers can allow moisture ingress and corrosion of the steering linkage. Examine the under‑body for rust, especially around the wheel arches and sills, and verify that the 12 V battery holds a charge and shows no signs of sulphation. Finally, confirm that the service book contains regular oil, filter and coolant changes; if the records are sparse, plan for a full fluid flush and a comprehensive brake‑system bleed to ensure that age‑related fluid degradation does not affect performance or safety.