2015 Vauxhall Adam 1.0L Petrol · OY65 YLF

The defining mechanical story of this 2015 Vauxhall Adam centres on a clear and escalating concern with the front suspension and steering linkage geometry, a pattern that warrants close attention from any prospective buyer. The most recent test on 30 September 2025 recorded a pass, but only after both front track rod end ball joint dust covers were noted as damaged on the nearside and offside, mirroring identical minor advisories raised in October 2024. More tellingly, the 7 October 2024 test resulted in a failure due to a nearside front suspension arm ball joint dust cover no longer preventing the ingress of dirt, a major defect classified under Section 5.3.4 (b) (ii) which suggests the joint itself could now be vulnerable to contamination and accelerated wear. Combined with earlier advisories in 2023 covering lightly misting front shock absorbers, noisy offside wheel bearings at both front and rear, and an offside rear service brake binding slightly, the record indicates a chassis and braking system that is showing age-related deterioration rather than isolated wear items. With 79,609 miles recorded over approximately eleven years, the vehicle accumulates roughly 7,237 miles annually, placing it squarely within typical usage parameters for its age and segment. There are no extended gaps in the testing history, with annual MOTs consistently recorded from 2019 through 2025, which indicates the car has remained in regular use rather than being laid up for prolonged periods. This consistent running pattern means components such as the clutch, drivetrain, and brake system have experienced normal service cycling, but it also means that the wear items now surfacing in the suspension and braking assemblies are likely genuine age and mileage-related degradation rather than symptoms of long-term standing. The 2023 advisories for front tyres worn close to the legal limit at 2mm also align with a car that has been actively driven, as tyres reaching that wear threshold typically reflect substantial cumulative mileage on the front axle. Given the recurring front suspension advisories, a physical inspection should focus on the condition of the track rod ends, suspension arm ball joints, and the associated rubber boots for any perishing, splits, or evidence of fresh grease around the joints, as the 2024 failure suggests contamination risk is real on this vehicle. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end when traversing speed bumps or uneven road surfaces, as worn ball joints frequently present as audible impacts under load. Pay particular attention to steering precision, checking for any vagueness, looseness, or juddering through the wheel, and watch for uneven tyre wear across the front pair which would corroborate any developing play in the steering or suspension linkages. The 2023 advisory for offside rear brake binding should also prompt a road check for any dragging sensation, uneven deceleration, or pulling to one side under braking, which would confirm the caliper slider mechanism is seizing. Additional test drive priorities should include a thorough assessment of the front shock absorbers, which were flagged for light oil misting in 2023. During the drive, evaluate body control over undulating surfaces and observe whether the front end exhibits excessive bouncing, wallowing, or extended oscillation after compression, all of which would indicate the dampers have deteriorated beyond the minor misting stage. The advisories for slightly noisy offside wheel bearings at both front and rear suggest listening carefully for any humming or droning noise that rises with road speed, particularly during a road test where the vehicle is taken on a dual carriageway or motorway, as bearing noise becomes more pronounced at sustained higher speeds. Finally, with the exhaust noted as having a minor leak of gases in both 2024 tests, inspect the system visually for any black soot deposits around joints or hangers, and listen for any ticking, hissing, or increased engine bay noise which could indicate the leak has progressed since the last recorded test.