2010 Vauxhall Astra 1.6L Petrol · LR60 OEA

This Vauxhall Astra’s most recent MOT test, conducted just 11 months ago on 16 August 2025 , confirms it passed without defects—though the record curiously shows both a pass and a fail for the same test date and mileage, which suggests a possible administrative error rather than a mechanical issue. The vehicle’s history since 2023 demonstrates a stable pattern of compliance, with no recurring advisories or major faults, though the dual entries at 42,101 miles and 49,338 miles warrant scrutiny to rule out undocumented work. The absence of failings for exhaust emissions, structural integrity, or critical braking systems over this period indicates the car has not suffered from obvious neglect, but the repeated test failures at identical mileages raise questions about whether the vehicle was moved between tests or if the tester overlooked a persistent minor issue. The recorded mileage of 57,631 miles over 16 years —approximately 3,600 miles per year —is unusually low for a vehicle of this age, suggesting it has spent extended periods either stored or lightly used. There are no gaps in the MOT record that imply prolonged non-use, but the consistent low mileage between tests (e.g., 6,763 miles in a year between September 2023 and August 2024 ) could indicate the owner prioritised short-term driving rather than high-mileage maintenance. This pattern may have spared high-wear components like suspension bushes or brake pads from excessive degradation, but it also means the car has not undergone the natural stress that could have revealed hidden issues earlier. Given the lack of failings in the MOT history, a buyer should focus their inspection on suspension integrity , particularly the rear coil springs and bushes , as these are common wear items on this model that may not trigger an MOT failure until they are severely deteriorated. The front and rear brake systems should be checked for uneven pad wear or binding calipers, as the dual test failures at 42,101 miles could hint at a recurring minor fault, such as a sticking brake servo or worn master cylinder. Additionally, subframe corrosion —a known issue on this Astra—should be inspected around the wheel arches and sills, especially if the vehicle has spent time off-road or in salted environments. The exhaust system and emissions controls should also be verified, as any leaks or failing catalytic converter would have been flagged in previous tests. While the MOT record suggests no major overdue work, a thorough mechanical check is essential to confirm the vehicle’s true condition beyond test compliance.