2016 Vauxhall Insignia 2.0L Diesel · LP16 HVG

The latest DVSA MOT test for the Vauxhall Insignia, conducted on 2026-07-16, resulted in a clean pass with no recorded defects, marking a return to full compliance after a previous failure in 2024. The overall maintenance trend over the past three years is stable, with only a single MOT failure related to front windscreen wipers—both near-side and offside—failing to clear the glass effectively. This recurring advisory suggests a potential issue with the wiper mechanism or linkage, which should be addressed promptly to prevent further compliance risks. The absence of other defects or advisories in the intervening MOTs indicates that the vehicle’s structural integrity, emissions, and core systems remain in acceptable condition, though the wiper failure is a notable outlier requiring attention. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 88,695 miles at the time of this assessment represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 8,870 miles per year, which aligns with typical driving patterns for a ten-year-old car. This mileage distribution does not suggest either excessive wear from high annual mileage or prolonged idleness, though the slight gap between the 2024 failure and the 2026 MOT—around two years—could indicate periods of reduced use. However, the absence of higher mileage spikes or service records for wear-prone components like brakes, suspension, or drivetrain suggests that while the vehicle has accumulated moderate usage, it has not been subjected to particularly demanding conditions. This profile is less likely to reveal severe wear issues, but it does warrant careful attention to consumables and time-sensitive maintenance, such as fluid degradation and tyre ageing. For a prospective buyer, the most critical inspection should focus on the windscreen wiper mechanism, as the 2024 MOT failure highlights a recurring compliance issue. Visually inspect the wiper arms, linkages, and rubber blades for wear, cracks, or misalignment, and test their operation by moving them manually and during a test drive to check for resistance or failure to clear the glass. If the wipers remain non-compliant after a repair, the vehicle may fail future MOTs unless corrected. Beyond the wipers, the clean MOT history and moderate mileage make this a suitable candidate for a thorough physical inspection, particularly for signs of age-related degradation. Check the tyre sidewalls for perishing, cracking, or separation, as ten-year-old rubber can degrade significantly, even at low mileage. Inspect the front and rear tyres for uneven wear patterns, which could indicate suspension or alignment issues, and listen for clunks or rattles during a test drive, particularly when driving over bumps or at speed, as these may signal worn suspension bushes or coil springs. In addition to tyres, verify the condition of the vehicle’s fluids, which should be replaced according to manufacturer recommendations—typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Focus on the engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and differential/transmission fluid, as prolonged service intervals can lead to sludge formation or corrosion. Test the 12V battery for voltage output and overall health, as standing vehicles can suffer from sulphation or weak terminals, especially in older models. Finally, examine the brake system for signs of corrosion on discs or binding calipers, which can occur if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. A test drive should include a brake check for smooth operation, no sponginess, and no excessive pedal travel or grinding noises, which could indicate worn brake pads or warped discs. If the vehicle has been used primarily for short trips or city driving, its emissions system may also require closer inspection, as idling can lead to fuel system or catalytic converter degradation over time. Overall, while the MOT history is clean and the mileage profile is reasonable, a diligent buyer should prioritise the wiper repair and conduct a comprehensive check of consumables and standing-related wear to ensure long-term roadworthiness.