2009 Vauxhall Astra 1.7L Diesel · ND09 XRW

The Vauxhall Astra’s most recent MOT test on 2025-05-14 resulted in a double entry—one pass and one fail—both at 91,444 miles, which suggests either a rare administrative error in the DVSA system or a test centre oversight rather than a genuine roadworthiness issue. The preceding tests in 2024 and 2023 also show identical pass/fail pairs at identical mileages, indicating no actual mechanical failures were recorded. This pattern implies the vehicle has consistently passed all required MOT checks without major defects, but the repeated pass/fail entries warrant verification that no critical issues were overlooked during testing. The lack of advisories or defects across all five tests suggests the vehicle has not experienced recurring problems that would necessitate urgent attention, though the double entries raise a cautionary note about the reliability of the record itself. The recorded mileage of 91,444 miles over 17 years equates to an average of approximately 5,379 miles per year, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age and model. The mileage increments between tests—4,364 miles between 2023 and 2024, and 3,986 miles between 2024 and 2025—are consistent with minimal use, which could indicate either infrequent driving or prolonged periods of storage. The absence of any gaps longer than a year in the MOT history suggests the vehicle has remained in active circulation, albeit lightly. While low mileage generally correlates with reduced wear on high-stress components like suspension bushes, coil springs, or drivetrain parts, it does not preclude other forms of deterioration, such as corrosion or prolonged static damage if the car was stored without protection. Given the clean MOT history, a prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of components that are not directly tested during an MOT but are critical to long-term reliability. Focus on the suspension system—particularly the condition of rear suspension bushes and coil springs, which may show signs of cracking or degradation even without binding calipers or excessive play. The brakes, though not flagged in the MOT, should be examined for uneven wear on discs or pads, as well as the integrity of the brake lines and caliper pistons, which can corrode over time. Structural integrity is another key area; check for corrosion in wheel arches, sills, and subframes, as these areas are prone to rust even with low mileage if the vehicle was exposed to moisture or poor storage conditions. Finally, verify the integrity of the exhaust system, especially around joints and hangers, as leaks or damage could go unnoticed without an emissions test. The absence of advisories in the MOT record does not guarantee these areas are flawless, so a professional pre-purchase inspection is strongly advised.