2017 Vauxhall Zafira 1.4L Petrol · MJ67 LCV

The most recent MOT test on 27 April 2026 resulted in a PASS, but it should be viewed in direct conjunction with the FAILED outcome recorded on the same date, as both relate to the same inspection. The vehicle initially failed on a Major defect for excessive wear in the nearside front anti-roll bar ball joint, a component that contributes significantly to vehicle stability, cornering composure, and body control, particularly in a multi-seat MPV of this type. Following rectification, it passed with four advisories and one Minor, covering an oil leak deemed not excessive, a coolant leak, a minor exhaust gas leak, a fluctuating nearside front service brake, and an inoperative offside rear registration plate lamp. When assessed against the wider MOT history, the maintenance trend is best described as broadly stable but with a recurring pattern of advisory and minor issues that warrant close attention. Defects over the past three years have spanned tyres, brakes, suspension coil springs, washers, lighting, and fluid leaks, indicating that while the vehicle is fundamentally roadworthy, a number of consumable and wear items are nearing or reaching the end of their service life. With a recorded mileage of 78,041 miles over approximately nine years, this Zafira has covered around 8,671 miles annually, which is broadly typical for its age and segment, although it sits at the lower end of average family MPV usage. There are no unusual gaps or sudden surges in the recorded odometer readings, suggesting consistent rather than erratic use. While this level of mileage is generally favourable for long-term mechanical durability, the Zafira is known to be particularly sensitive to infrequent or short-journey usage in several areas, most notably the timing chain, dual mass flywheel, and turbocharger oil supply. Lower annual mileage should not, therefore, be interpreted as a guarantee of condition, as short trips and prolonged standing periods can be just as harmful to certain components as high annual mileages. The recurring advisories relating to fluid leaks should form a central part of any pre-purchase evaluation. The noted oil leak, although recorded as not excessive, is persistent and merits a physical inspection of the underside for fresh seepage from the cam cover gasket, sump, and turbo oil feed pipes, all common failure points on this generation of Zafira. A borescope inspection through the oil filler cap is also advisable to check for internal sludge, which can accumulate from infrequent oil changes. The coolant leak is of greater immediate concern and should be pressure-tested during inspection, with particular attention directed to the water pump, thermostat housing, and the plastic coolant pipes that run across the back of the engine, as these are well-documented failure points. Any signs of coolant loss during a test drive, including rising temperature gauge readings, a sweet smell from under the bonnet, or visible staining on cooling components, should be treated seriously. Brake, suspension, and under-bonnet checks should be equally thorough given the documented history of rear brake pads reaching dangerous wear levels, a fractured nearside rear coil spring, and excessive wear in the front anti-roll bar ball joint. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking from the front suspension over bumps and uneven road surfaces, which may indicate further anti-roll bar wear or perished bushes, while the rear should be checked for sagging or uneven ride height that could suggest an impending second coil spring failure. Inspect all four brake discs for lipping, scoring, and corrosion, paying close attention to the rear calipers, which can bind and lead to uneven pad wear as experienced previously. The exhaust system should be examined both visually and audibly for the minor gas leak noted at the most recent test, focusing on joint gaskets and the front flex pipe section. Tyres warrant careful scrutiny for sidewall perishing and cracking given the vehicle's age, even where tread depth remains adequate, and a check should be made that all registration plate lamps and washer jets are functioning correctly, as these have failed repeatedly. Finally, verify that the timing chain has been inspected or replaced according to manufacturer intervals, confirm a complete service history with recent brake fluid, coolant, and cambelt or chain attention, and ensure the 12-volt battery holds a strong charge under load, as electronic stability and infotainment faults are common age-related concerns on this model.