2014 Vauxhall Vivaro 2.0L Diesel · LT14 HTP

This 2014 Vauxhall Vivaro presents a broadly stable but mechanically tired picture at its most recent MOT on 14 January 2026, where it passed at 91,961 miles. The maintenance trend is neither clearly improving nor sharply worsening, but rather reflects a pattern of recurring minor faults that have persisted across multiple test cycles. The tester flagged an oil leak, offside front lower suspension arm ball joint play, and worn front anti-roll bar D-bushes, all noted as not excessive. These are the same categories of wear that have appeared in previous years, suggesting the vehicle has been kept roadworthy without fully resolving underlying deterioration. The pass is valid, but the accumulation of advisories points to a van that has been run rather than meticulously maintained. The mileage progression tells a consistent story. From 74,326 miles in January 2023 to 81,587 miles in January 2024, then 86,953 miles in January 2025, and finally 91,961 miles in January 2026, the van has covered roughly 5,000 to 7,000 miles per year in recent use. This is slightly below the annualised average of approximately 7,663 miles implied by the total age and recorded mileage, which may indicate the van saw heavier use in its earlier years or has been driven less intensively more recently. There are no alarming gaps in the MOT record, with annual tests filed consistently each January, giving a reliable chronological picture of the vehicle's condition. The most persistent area of concern is the front suspension and steering linkage. Offside front ball joint play has appeared in tests spanning 2023 through 2026, affecting the track rod end, suspension arm, and lower arm across different inspections. This recurring play across multiple components suggests the front-end wear is not isolated to a single joint but reflects broader deterioration in the steering and suspension bushes and ball joints. A buyer should have the entire front end inspected on a ramp, checking for play in all ball joints, track rod ends, and wishbone bushes, and should budget for replacement of worn components to resolve the cumulative slack. The braking system also warrants close attention. The 2025 test recorded a nearside rear service brake binding and a rear parking brake that only just met minimum efficiency, indicating the rear braking system needs adjustment or repair. Combined with front brake pads noted as wearing thin in 2024, this suggests brake maintenance has been reactive rather than proactive. The persistent oil leak, flagged in four of the last five tests, should be traced to its source, whether that is a rocker cover gasket, sump seal, or crankshaft oil seal, as even minor leaks can escalate. A thorough underbody inspection for corrosion, particularly around suspension mounting points and brake lines, is advisable before purchase.