2012 Chevrolet Cruze 1.6L Petrol · LS12 FNT

The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze presents a stable and recently improving maintenance picture. The most recent MOT, conducted on 30 January 2026 at 92,745 miles, passed with zero defects recorded. This clean bill of health follows a failure just one day prior on 29 January 2026 at 92,734 miles, where the tester flagged excessive exhaust carbon monoxide at idle and after a second fast idle, indicating a combustion or emissions system fault that was evidently rectified within 24 hours. The trajectory from a failed test to a fully clean pass suggests the immediate emissions concern has been addressed, though the underlying cause warrants scrutiny. The vehicle has covered approximately 9,672 miles in the 14 months between the February 2025 test at 83,073 miles and the January 2026 test at 92,745 miles, which is notably higher than the long-term average of roughly 6,625 miles per year. This accelerated usage rate in the most recent period points to heavier recent driving, placing additional stress on consumable components and the exhaust system. The gap between the March 2024 pass at 80,856 miles and the February 2025 test at 83,073 miles shows a more modest 2,217-mile accumulation over 11 months, suggesting the vehicle may have seen lighter use or a period of standing before the recent uptick. A buyer should pay close attention to the rear suspension and braking components during any in-person inspection. The February 2025 test recorded corroded rear coil springs on both sides, a finding that raises questions about the condition of the rear dampers and top mounts given the vehicle's age and the 9,600 miles covered since that advisory was issued. The same test also noted worn, pitted, or scored front brake discs on both sides, and while these were not deemed seriously weakened at 83,073 miles, the subsequent high-mileage usage means disc thickness and condition should be physically verified. The emissions failure in January 2026, though quickly resolved, warrants a check of the catalytic converter, lambda sensors, and ignition system to confirm the repair was substantive rather than a temporary fix. Tyre condition also deserves attention, as the February 2025 failure recorded both front tyres below the minimum tread depth, and the March 2024 pass noted edge wear on both front tyres, suggesting possible alignment or suspension geometry issues that may persist.