2018 Vauxhall Insignia 1.5L Petrol · LS67 EWB

The 2018 Vauxhall Insignia’s latest MOT test on 2026-07-27 resulted in a clean pass, though it included two persistent advisories concerning tyre wear—both front and rear tyres exhibiting significant lateral wear patterns, with the front tyre approaching the legal minimum tread depth at 5.2.3(e). Over the preceding six years, the MOT history demonstrates a stable maintenance profile, with no failures recorded until 2025, when rear brake-related advisories first appeared. The advisories since then have remained consistent, indicating a gradual but steady wear progression rather than a sudden deterioration, which suggests the vehicle has been driven under conditions that accelerate tyre and brake component degradation, likely due to either aggressive cornering, uneven load distribution, or prolonged periods of heavy braking. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 93,114 miles at the time of assessment reflects a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 11,639 miles per year, which is within the expected range for an eight-year-old car, particularly if it has been used for commuting or light road travel. The consistent mileage accumulation over the years, without significant gaps or rapid surges, implies a steady driving pattern rather than heavy or intermittent use that might exacerbate wear on suspension, drivetrain, or internal components. However, the presence of recurring tyre and brake advisories suggests that the vehicle has been subjected to conditions that accelerate these systems, warranting closer attention to tyre rotation, alignment, and braking habits to mitigate further wear. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the tyres, given the repeated advisories and the risk of uneven wear leading to hydroplaning hazards or premature tread failure. Visually examine the tyre sidewalls for signs of cracking or perishing, which can indicate age-related degradation despite the current mileage, and check the tread depth for any irregular wear patterns beyond the advisories. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the tyres, such as squealing during cornering or a loss of grip on wet surfaces, which could signal lateral wear or internal damage. Additionally, verify the brake system’s functionality by assessing pedal feel—ensure there is no sponginess or excessive travel, and listen for grinding or squeaking noises when braking, which may indicate worn pads or warped discs. The rear brake advisories, particularly the worn and pitted discs, indicate that the braking system has undergone significant use, and while the vehicle may currently pass the MOT, the discs should be monitored closely. On a test drive, observe for brake shudder or pulsation, which could signal warping or uneven disc thickness, and check for a reduction in stopping distance or a spongy pedal feel that may signal brake fluid degradation or air in the system. Given the age and mileage, it is prudent to consider a brake inspection within the next 1,000 to 1,500 miles, depending on driving habits, to replace the rear pads and discs before they reach critical wear thresholds. Meanwhile, the suspension components should be checked for signs of excessive play or clunking, particularly around the rear axle, as the wear advisories may correlate with suspension bush or spring degradation. Finally, ensure all fluids—brake, coolant, and transmission—are topped up to manufacturer specifications, as age-related degradation can compromise system performance, and consider a comprehensive service check if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods.