2018 Vauxhall Adam 1.2L Petrol · LU07 MON

The most recent MOT on 15 August 2026 was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle currently meets the statutory safety and emissions standards. Over the preceding three years the record shows a mixed picture: 2025 featured both a pass with several advisories and a failure due to a malfunctioning tyre‑pressure monitoring system and a defective wiper blade, while 2024 and 2023 each presented minor advisory items such as light oil misting from the front and rear shock absorbers and a near‑limit front tyre. The absence of any advisories or failures on the latest test suggests that recent maintenance has addressed the earlier concerns and that the overall trend is now stabilising rather than deteriorating. With 36,486 miles logged on a 2018 model, the vehicle averages roughly 4,600 miles per year, well below the typical UK average for a car of this age. The low annual usage points to relatively light duty, but it also raises the possibility of extended periods of inactivity. Prolonged standing can accelerate rubber perishing, battery sulphation and corrosion of suspension bushings and brake components, even though the mileage‑related wear on drivetrain parts will be modest compared with a high‑mileage counterpart. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the front braking system, which has been flagged in three consecutive MOTs. Inspect the front discs for scoring, uneven wear or excessive thickness loss and verify that the pads retain sufficient material; any pulsation, squealing or a soft, spongy pedal on a short test drive would indicate that replacement is imminent. Confirm that the fuel‑cap seal now sits tightly, as a deteriorating seal can cause evaporative emissions failures. The tyre‑pressure monitoring system, which failed in 2025, must be fully operational – a quick visual check of the sensor units and a scan of live pressure readings will reveal any lingering faults. Examine all four tyres for sidewall cracking, perishing or embedded objects such as the previously recorded nail, and ensure they are inflated to the manufacturer’s specification; uneven wear could also hint at worn suspension bushes or misaligned steering geometry. Given the vehicle’s age and low‑mileage profile, a thorough visual and functional inspection of age‑related items is advisable. Look for dry, cracked tyre sidewalls even on tyres with adequate tread depth, and verify that the spare is serviceable. Test the 12‑volt battery’s cranking voltage and inspect the terminals for corrosion, as batteries left idle for long periods can lose capacity. Check the condition of the shock absorbers for any oil seepage around the mountings and assess ride quality for excessive bounce or nose‑dive, which would indicate internal wear. Finally, confirm that the engine oil, brake fluid and coolant have been changed in line with calendar intervals rather than mileage alone, as fluid degradation over eight years can lead to reduced lubrication, braking performance and cooling efficiency.