1996 Vauxhall Astra 1.4L Petrol · N473 AVR

The vehicle's MOT history shows a stable trend of passing tests following a single failure in May 2023. The most recent test on 17 June 2025 resulted in a pass with no defects or advisories recorded. This follows a clean pass in June 2024 and May 2023, suggesting that any issues identified during the failed test in May 2023 were rectified prior to the subsequent successful inspections. The recorded mileage of 49,333 miles is low for a 1996 model, averaging approximately 1,644 miles per year over its lifespan. The MOT records do not provide specific mileage increments for each individual test to confirm exact annual usage, but the current total remains low for a thirty-year-old vehicle. Low annual mileage can sometimes indicate long periods of inactivity, which may affect rubber components and fluid degradation. A prospective buyer should conduct a physical inspection focusing on components that often degrade during periods of low usage. While the MOT record is currently free of advisories, the age of the vehicle necessitates a close examination of the chassis and subframes for structural corrosion. Inspect the condition of suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake lines, as these parts can perish or seize even if the vehicle is driven infrequently. Check the integrity of all rubber seals and hoses to ensure they have not perished. Given the low mileage, the buyer should also verify the condition of the braking system, specifically looking for binding calipers or corroded brake discs that can occur when a vehicle sits idle. The absence of recorded defects in the last three tests provides a clean recent history, but the age of the vehicle remains the primary factor for mechanical scrutiny.