2012 Vauxhall Astra 2.0L Diesel · LS62 KLM

The most recent MOT, carried out on 15 October 2025, was passed but recorded an advisory that the off‑side front tyre is worn close to the legal limit on the edge. Earlier that year the on‑side front tyre also approached the limit, and in 2022 the near‑side rear tyre showed slight cracking. Prior to 2022 there were more serious failures – a fractured near‑side coil spring in May 2022 and a structural deformation of the near‑side sill in 2019 – but since the October 2022 test the vehicle has passed without any recorded defects, only tyre wear advisories. This pattern indicates that the major mechanical issues have been addressed and the maintenance trend is now stabilising, albeit with tyre wear that needs monitoring. With 57,920 miles recorded over 14 years the average annual mileage is roughly 4,100 mi, which is low for a car of this age. Such modest usage often points to periods of infrequent running or extended storage, which can accelerate age‑related deterioration of rubber components, seals and corrosion‑prone areas even though the mileage is modest. Low mileage does not guarantee low wear on items that degrade with time, such as tyre sidewalls, battery plates, brake discs and fluid integrity, so the buyer should treat the car as a “calendar‑age” vehicle rather than a low‑kilometre one. When inspecting the car, give particular attention to the tyre condition: measure tread depth on all four wheels, look for sidewall cracking, bulges or uneven wear that could cause vibration or shudder at higher speeds. Verify that the near‑side coil spring that fractured in 2022 has been replaced with a genuine part and check for any clunking or excessive bounce when applying load to the suspension. Examine the near‑side sill and surrounding body panels for any lingering misalignment, rust or signs of structural weakness, and ensure the doors close squarely. The oil‑leak advisory from 2019 should be re‑checked; look for fresh oil spots on the sump, around the valve cover and under the engine, and confirm that the oil level and condition are within specification. Finally, inspect the parking‑brake cables and their casings for cracking and confirm that the handbrake operates firmly without excessive play. Given the vehicle’s age, carry out a thorough age‑related checklist: test the 12 V battery voltage and load capacity, as prolonged standing can reduce cranking power and cause sulphation. Inspect the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or uneven pad wear that might produce pulsation when braking, and replace pads if they are near the wear limit. Verify that coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid have been changed within the last two to three years, as fluid degradation can lead to overheating or reduced hydraulic performance. Check all suspension bushes, mounts and the remaining coil springs for looseness or corrosion, and listen for any knocks when driving over bumps. Confirm that the service book shows regular oil changes, timing‑belt (or chain) service if applicable to the engine type, and that any recall work has been completed. A careful visual inspection of the under‑body for rust, especially around the wheel arches and exhaust, will help ensure that the low mileage has not masked hidden corrosion.