2010 Vauxhall Astra 1.4L Petrol · LT10 BCE

A persistent theme in this Astra’s MOT record is the recurring corrosion of the rear coil springs combined with ongoing rear‑brake wear, while the latest test in March 2026 still produced a pass but left several advisories on those same items and on tyre tread. The vehicle has also shown a pattern of lighting failures – off‑side stop and registration‑plate lamps have repeatedly been recorded as inoperative – suggesting that electrical components have been a weak point, though none of those faults were classified as dangerous. At 118,281 mi for a sixteen‑year‑old model the average annual mileage sits around 7,400 mi, which is broadly typical for a family hatchback. The MOT history is fairly continuous, with tests recorded in 2021, 2022, 2024, 2025 and twice in 2026, indicating no long periods of inactivity that would raise concerns about prolonged storage. The mileage progression aligns with the observed wear on brake pads and tyre edges, meaning the consumables have been exercised at a normal rate for a vehicle of this age. For a prospective buyer the rear suspension should be inspected closely. Corroded coil springs can lose stiffness, leading to sagging rear ride height, uneven tyre wear and a characteristic clunk or knocking noise when traversing bumps or potholes. A test drive should include a firm press on the rear of the car to feel for excessive bounce and a careful listening for metallic creaks. The rear brake system also warrants attention: the 2021 dangerous‑level pad wear, followed by thin‑pad advisories in 2024 and 2026, suggests the pads may be nearing the end of their service life. Look for reduced rear‑brake feel, pedal pulsation, or squealing on deceleration, and have the pads and discs measured for remaining thickness. Electrical lighting should be verified and any faulty bulbs replaced, as the off‑side stop lamp and registration‑plate lamp have failed on multiple occasions. Although these issues are not safety‑critical, they will need rectification to avoid future failures. Finally, the tyre advisories on the inner edges indicate that the tyres are close to the legal limit; a visual inspection for tread depth and any cupping or side‑wall damage is essential, and replacement may be required before the next MOT. A qualified mechanic’s full pre‑purchase inspection, focusing on the rear suspension, brake pads/discs and tyre condition, will give a clear picture of any imminent remedial work.