2017 Vauxhall Mokka 1.4L Petrol · LS17 FFA

The most recent DVSA MOT recorded on 18 March 2026 resulted in a failure, principally for a non‑functional engine malfunction‑indicator lamp, a fractured off‑side front coil spring and an ineffective off‑side windscreen wiper, all classed as major defects. Although the same date shows a pass with only tyre‑wear advisories, the presence of a failure supersedes the pass and indicates that the vehicle has not been brought back to a road‑worthy condition. Over the past four years the MOT history alternates between clean passes and repeated failures for the same engine‑MIL fault and for front‑suspension components, suggesting a deteriorating maintenance pattern rather than an improving one. At 58,863 mi the car averages roughly 6,500 mi per annum, which sits squarely within the normal UK usage envelope for a nine‑year‑old vehicle. The mileage does not, on its own, point to excessive wear, but the intermittent nature of the MOT results implies periods of limited running interspersed with potentially hard use. Low annual mileage can mask age‑related degradation of rubber components, corrosion of brake discs and the gradual loss of suspension bushings, while the recorded front‑coil spring fracture indicates that the chassis may have been subjected to a sudden load or impact despite the modest mileage. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front suspension and engine management systems. Inspect the off‑side front coil spring for any signs of cracking, deformation or missing retainers, and listen for a distinct clunk or excessive bounce when the vehicle is driven over bumps or during hard cornering – symptoms of a compromised strut assembly. Verify that the engine’s diagnostic lamp illuminates correctly and request a full read‑out of any stored fault codes; a persistent MIL fault can denote issues with the emission‑control sensors, fuel system or catalytic converter, all of which may affect both performance and future MOT compliance. The wiper mechanism should be tested for adequate sweep and speed, as a malfunction can be a simple electrical fault but is a mandatory safety item. Tyre condition warrants close scrutiny: the front tyres are reported as worn close to the legal limit and the rear near‑side tyre shows similar edge wear, so check tread depth, side‑wall cracking and uniformity; uneven wear may point to the already noted MacPherson strut pin and bush wear, which, although only advisory, can progress to excessive play and handling instability if not replaced. Beyond the recorded defects, age‑related checks are essential. Examine the brake discs for surface lipping, rust spots or uneven thickness, especially on the front where an advisory was noted, and assess the rear pads for the thin wear previously reported – a pulsating brake pedal or squeal under moderate braking would confirm the need for replacement. Inspect the under‑carriage for corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches and suspension mounting points, as prolonged standing can accelerate rust. Test the 12 V battery voltage and consider a load test, given the vehicle’s age, and verify that the service book contains stamps for regular oil, coolant and filter changes; fluid condition degrades with time even at low mileage, so a complete fluid service may be prudent before committing to purchase.