2009 Vauxhall Astra 1.6L Petrol · ML09 AAJ

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance history reveals a concerning trend of structural degradation and mechanical wear. The most recent test in November 2021 at 157,931 miles showed the car passing despite a noted oil leak and a misted offside rear shock absorber. While the immediate failures from previous years appear to be addressed, the persistent presence of corrosion across critical structural components suggests that the vehicle is reaching a stage where preventative rust management is being overtaken by reactive repairs. At 157,931 miles over seventeen years, the Astra has averaged approximately 9,290 miles per year, which aligns with typical UK usage patterns. However, there is a significant gap in the data provided, with the last recorded MOT occurring in November 2021. Given the current date of June 2026, the vehicle has operated without an official roadworthiness check for over four years. This lapse is a major red flag for a vehicle of this age, as rubber components, braking systems, and structural integrity can deteriorate rapidly over such intervals without professional inspection. A buyer must prioritise a thorough physical inspection of the front and rear sub-frames. The record consistently flagged these areas for corrosion back to 2018, with the 2020 test specifically noting rust on the rear sub-frame. You should check for thinning metal or perforating rust that may have progressed beyond surface oxidation since the last test. Additionally, the lower suspension arms and coil springs showed a history of corrosion and should be examined for play or structural failure. The engine cam cover leak noted in 2020 and 2021 requires close monitoring to ensure it has not worsened into a significant drip. Because the offside rear shock absorber was already misting in 2021, check for active fluid leaks and signs of collapse. Given the long period since the last MOT, the state of the tyres, brake lines, and fluid hoses must also be verified before any purchase is finalised.