2012 Vauxhall Astra 1.6L Petrol · PJ12 ADX

The Vauxhall Astra’s most recent MOT tests in March 2026 reveal a clean record with no defects or advisories, yet the vehicle failed twice in rapid succession—once at 29,166 miles and again at 29,168 miles—before passing the third attempt. This suggests a minor administrative or procedural oversight rather than a recurring mechanical issue, as no faults were recorded across all five tests since March 2024. The absence of advisories or recurring failures indicates the vehicle has not experienced persistent problems with suspension bushes, coil springs, binding brakes, or corrosion-related structural weaknesses during these inspections. However, the double failure at the same mileage warrants confirmation that the test centre’s procedures were consistent, as no technical faults were logged. The recorded mileage of 29,168 miles over 14 years equates to approximately 2,083 miles annually, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age. The gaps between tests—spanning exactly one year between March 2024, March 2025, and March 2026—align with the MOT cycle, but the lack of intermediate mileage suggests the car may have been stationary for extended periods. This could imply limited use, storage, or potential neglect of routine maintenance such as fluid top-ups or tyre pressure checks. The consistency in passing scores without advisories does not rule out hidden wear, particularly in components like brake discs or suspension dampers, which degrade even when a vehicle is not driven. Given the clean MOT history, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, focusing on the condition of rear suspension bushes and coil springs, which often degrade gradually without immediate failure. The brakes—particularly the rear calipers—should be checked for binding or uneven wear, as the double failure at the same mileage could hint at a minor but unresolved issue. Corrosion should be examined at wheel arches, sills, and the subframe, as rust can compromise structural integrity over time. Additionally, verify the integrity of the exhaust system for leaks or cracks, as emissions-related failures are uncommon in this model but can develop silently. The low mileage also makes it prudent to inspect fluid levels (brake, power steering, coolant) and tyre tread depth, as prolonged storage can lead to degradation in these areas.