2015 Vauxhall Astra 1.2L Diesel · OU65 AEK

The most recent MOT, carried out on 13 August 2025, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that at the time of testing the vehicle met the minimum safety and emissions standards. Over the eight‑year MOT record the pattern is one of generally stable compliance, with only advisory items appearing intermittently and no outright failures. The advisories have tended to relate to wear items – tyres and brake discs – which is typical for a car of this age and mileage, and there is no evidence of a deteriorating trend in structural or safety‑critical systems. At 132,352 miles the Astra averages roughly 12,000 miles per year, a usage rate that is above the low‑mileage norm for a 2015 model but not excessive for a family hatchback that may have been used for regular commuting and occasional longer trips. The mileage progression is consistent year‑on‑year, with no large gaps that would suggest prolonged periods of storage, which can sometimes mask corrosion or fluid degradation. The higher annual mileage does accelerate wear on consumables such as tyres, brake discs, suspension bushings and engine oil, and it places greater emphasis on checking for any signs of premature component fatigue. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the tyre condition. Both front tyres have previously been flagged as approaching the legal tread limit, and the near‑side front tyre was noted again in 2023. Inspect the tread depth across the width of each tyre for uneven wear, check the sidewalls for cracking, bulging or dry‑rot, and confirm that the tyres are of the correct size and type for the vehicle. While the brakes passed the test, advisories in 2021 highlighted rear and front disc wear; therefore a visual inspection of the discs for scoring, rust, or thinning, and a test‑drive assessment for any pulsation, squeal or increased pedal travel, are essential. Verify that the brake pads still have sufficient material and that the calipers move freely without binding. The off‑side front seat belt was noted as slightly damaged in 2018 – ensure the belt retracts smoothly, the latch engages securely and the webbing shows no fraying. The registration‑plate lamp failure recorded in 2019 should be confirmed as rectified, as a functional rear lamp is mandatory for road use. Given the vehicle’s age, a thorough check of time‑related items is prudent. Examine the 12‑volt battery for corrosion on the terminals, test the cranking voltage and consider a load test, especially if the car has spent periods idle. Inspect the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid for proper level, colour and any signs of contamination; fluids older than three years often require replacement regardless of mileage. Look for corrosion on the chassis, especially around the wheel arches, suspension mounting points and under‑body, as prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to rust that compromises structural integrity. Finally, assess the condition of the suspension – check for play in the ball joints, worn bushings, and any clunking noises over bumps – and confirm that the service book shows regular oil changes and any recommended interim services, which together will give a clearer picture of the car’s overall mechanical health.