2018 Vauxhall Zafira 1.4L Petrol · LR18 RFF

The dominant mechanical concern in this Zafira's history is the repeated identification of front Macpherson strut top mount wear, which has now been recorded as a Major defect on two consecutive MOT inspections. In February 2025 the front upper strut top bushes or bearings were flagged with excessive wear or free play on both sides, accompanied by advisories for an oil leak from the front lower area and a nearside front tyre worn close to the legal limit. By January 2026 the same condition has regressed further, with the nearside front upper strut top bush or bearing again cited as a Major failure, alongside a persistent oil leak from the nearside front lower section and tyre wear issues on both the nearside front and offside rear. The latest assessment on 7 January 2026 recorded a pass, but only after the failure earlier the same day was addressed. The pattern strongly suggests an unresolved chassis deterioration that is mechanically worsening year on year rather than stabilising. Against an eight-year lifespan, the recorded 53,359 miles equates to roughly 6,670 miles annually, which sits comfortably within typical usage parameters for a family MPV of this age and suggests neither excessive motorway accumulation nor extended periods of standing. There are no significant gaps in the testing history or sudden mileage jumps that would indicate a dormant period followed by heavy use, meaning the wear observed on the suspension components is consistent with steady, real-world accumulation rather than neglect through long-term storage. The oil leak has been recorded at both the 2025 and 2026 tests as not excessive, but its persistence indicates a sealing issue that has not been rectified between inspections and warrants closer examination of its source. A focused inspection should begin with the front strut top mounts, as this is the only Major defect category in the history and has now appeared twice. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, particularly when traversing speed bumps or potholes at low speed, and pay attention to any vagueness or delay in steering response that could indicate the bearing allowing the strut to rotate slightly under load. When stationary, turn the steering from lock to lock while the engine is running and listen for any grinding, clicking, or play felt through the steering wheel. Inspect the nearside front tyre shoulder closely for inner-edge wear, which is a classic symptom of a worn strut top bearing altering camber geometry, and check the offside rear tyre sidewall for any cracking or perishing that could compromise structural integrity. The persistent front lower oil leak should be traced to identify whether it originates from the sump, oil filter housing, or a camshaft cover gasket, as the source will determine whether it is a minor seep or a repair with significant labour cost. Brake feel and pedal response merit particular attention given the front-end focus of the defects, so test from a moderate speed with a firm application and note any vibration through the pedal or steering wheel that could indicate warped front discs, a common secondary issue on vehicles with compromised front suspension geometry. Lift the bonnet and inspect the front subframe mounting points and suspension turret areas for any surface corrosion, paying close attention to the area immediately around the strut tops where the failed bearings sit, as corrosion here can accelerate wear of the surrounding components. Finally, request evidence of any rectification work undertaken on the strut top mounts between the 2025 and 2026 tests, as a repeat Major on a closely related component within twelve months suggests either a low-quality replacement part has been fitted or the underlying corrosion affecting the strut tower has not been addressed.