2010 Vauxhall Zafira 1.7L Diesel · ML60 GWK

The vehicle presents a concerning state of roadworthiness with a clear trend of deferred maintenance and recurring mechanical failures. While it technically passed its most recent test in September 2025 at 117,302 miles, this followed two immediate failures within the same month. The record indicates a significant drop in maintenance standards, specifically regarding braking efficiency and suspension integrity which remained unaddressed across multiple tests. The persistent oil leak and structural corrosion suggest that the vehicle is only maintained when necessary to pass legal inspections rather than through proactive preventative care. At 117,302 miles over 16 years, the Zafira averages approximately 7,300 miles per year, which is consistent with low-to-moderate annual use. However, the data between September 2024 and September 2025 shows the vehicle covered only 1,326 miles, yet this period saw the most critical mechanical failures emerge. This low annual mileage often correlates with component degradation due to age rather than wear, evidenced by the perishing tyres and rubber-based suspension components noted in the latest entries. A buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the front subframe mounting points, as corrosion has been flagged consistently since 2023 and progressed to a prescribed area concern by 2025. The suspension system requires close attention, specifically the nearside and offside rear axle swivel pins and bushes which were marked as excessively worn in September 2025. Furthermore, the braking system shows a history of binding calipers, insufficient pedal travel, and inoperative parking brakes, indicating that the hydraulic system or mechanical linkages may be nearing failure. The recurring inner-edge wear on the front tyres suggests a persistent alignment issue or worn suspension geometry that has not been rectified. The presence of perishing tyres and a corroded brake hose indicates the vehicle may have sat for long periods, allowing rubber to degrade. Given the structural rust noted on the subframe and the history of defective exhaust mountings, the risk of high-cost repairs in the near future is significant.