2016 Vauxhall Adam 1.2L Petrol · LS66 YDA

The most recent MOT, carried out on 7 August 2026, was passed but returned an advisory that the off‑side front upper MacPherson strut is damaged, although not yet seriously weakened. Over the last six years the vehicle has moved from a mixture of minor advisories and occasional failures to a clean pass, with the only lingering concerns being progressive wear on front suspension components and tyre perishing. The trend can therefore be described as stabilising – the major fault recorded in 2023 (a front shock absorber fluid leak) has not re‑appeared, and the only current items are advisory in nature, suggesting that the owner has been addressing the most serious defects but that wear on the front suspension is now a recurring issue. At ten years old the Vauxhall Adam has logged 54,577 miles, averaging roughly 5,500 miles per annum. This is well below the typical UK average for a vehicle of this age and points to relatively light use, possibly interspersed with periods of inactivity. Low annual mileage reduces the cumulative wear on engine and drivetrain parts, yet it can exacerbate age‑related deterioration such as tyre perishing, rubber hardening, battery sulphation and fluid breakdown. The mileage pattern also means that any wear that does exist – notably on the front suspension bushes, shock absorbers and tyre sidewalls – is likely to be a function of time rather than distance, and should be inspected with that in mind. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front suspension. Examine the MacPherson strut mounts, pins and bushes for any play, cracked rubber or corrosion, and listen for clunking or a vague “knocking” when the steering wheel is turned at low speed. The off‑side upper strut damage noted in the latest advisory may be a precursor to a full‑scale strut failure, so a visual inspection of the strut housing for dents or oil seepage is advisable. While on the road, feel for excessive bounce after a bump – a sign the front shock absorber may still be leaking or losing damping efficiency – and watch for any uneven tyre wear that could indicate mis‑alignment or worn ball‑joint dust covers. Equally important are the tyres and braking system. Both front and rear tyres have been flagged repeatedly for cracking or perishing, so check the tread depth, sidewall integrity and look for dry rot, especially on the off‑side front and rear tyres. Verify that the tyre‑pressure monitoring system is functional, as a failure was recorded in 2022. Inspect the front brake discs for scoring or excessive rust, and ensure the pads are not near the minimum thickness; a pitted disc can lead to brake shudder under hard braking. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and low utilisation, have the 12 V battery load‑tested, confirm that the coolant, brake fluid and engine oil have been changed within the recommended intervals, and inspect the under‑carriage for any signs of corrosion or trapped moisture that could affect suspension mounts or exhaust components. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the Adam’s current roadworthiness and any imminent maintenance that may be required.