2012 Vauxhall Insignia 2.0L Diesel · LS62 MSO

The most recent DVSA examination on 18 January 2025 recorded a PASS with no advisories or defects, and the preceding test on 13 February 2024 also returned a PASS with no defects recorded. While the 2024 pass is a positive indicator, it should be noted that a fail was issued on the same date for a fractured offside rear coil spring, which was evidently rectified prior to the pass certificate being issued. Looking back through the available history, the vehicle has experienced intermittent structural and mechanical concerns, including two fractured rear coil springs (nearside in 2020 and offside in 2024) and a major exhaust leak in 2022. The overall trend appears broadly stable in recent tests, but the recurrence of suspension component failures suggests the underpinnings are subject to wear typical of high-mileage use. An average annual mileage of approximately 12,700 miles is considerably higher than the national norm for a vehicle of this age, and this figure should be cross-referenced with the dashboard odometer and any supporting service records to confirm authenticity and ensure no clerical discrepancy exists between recorded tests. Given the high recorded mileage and the fourteen-year age of the vehicle, mechanical wear is to be expected across consumable and structural components. The MOT record demonstrates recurring concerns with front tyre wear, with advisories recorded in 2020 and 2022 indicating both nearside and offside front tyres worn close to the legal limit or exhibiting edge wear. Edge wear on front tyres is frequently symptomatic of worn suspension bushes, misaligned tracking, or compromised steering components, and any uneven tread pattern observed during a physical inspection warrants further investigation. The 2021 test recorded rear brake pad wear and pitted or scored rear brake discs, which is consistent with the vehicle's age and accumulated mileage. Subsequent tests in 2022, 2024, and 2025 have not flagged the braking system, suggesting that remedial work was likely undertaken. The 2022 exhaust failure concerning an insecure central system with a major gas leak should have been fully rectified, though the integrity of replacement mounts and hangers is worth visually confirming, as inferior pattern parts can deteriorate prematurely. For a prospective buyer, a thorough physical inspection and test drive is highly advisable given the recorded high mileage and the nature of the historical defects. Begin with the suspension by pushing down firmly on each wing and releasing; listen for any remaining clonks, rattles, or creaks that would indicate deteriorated bushes, drop links, or strut top mount wear, particularly after the two confirmed rear coil spring failures. Carry out a visual check of the coil springs themselves for any signs of surface cracking or sagging, and inspect the front suspension arms, anti-roll bar links, and power steering components for fluid leaks or perished rubber gaiters. On the road, listen for any knocking over bumps, excessive body roll through corners, or uneven braking response that might suggest residual caliper binding or warped discs. The braking system should be tested from speed for any shudder through the pedal or steering, and the handbrake should be checked for full and even application on an incline. Attention should further be directed towards the tyres, exhaust system, and general condition of the vehicle's underbody and ancillaries. Inspect the front tyres closely for any remaining edge wear or uneven shoulder wear, as this remains a recurring advisory and may indicate lingering geometry or suspension issues. The exhaust system should be examined from the manifold rearwards for any signs of corrosion, blueing of components, or blowing joints, particularly around the central section that previously failed. Check the rear brake discs through the wheel spokes for any deep lipping, corrosion pitting, or binding calipers that could cause uneven pad wear or pulling under braking. Given the age and mileage, verify the condition of the timing chain, coolant, and automatic or manual transmission fluid, as these are time-served items that may require attention. Confirm that the service book contains regular stamps and that the 12V battery has been recently replaced, as prolonged standing or repeated short trips can compromise battery health. Finally, check for any oil leaks from the engine and gearbox, and examine the rear coil spring pockets for evidence of corrosion, which is a common failure point on high-mileage Insignias.