2015 Vauxhall Insignia 2.0L Diesel · PN02 THN

The most recent MOT test on the Vauxhall Insignia, conducted on 2026-06-03, resulted in a clean pass with only advisories present, marking a positive turnaround from the vehicle’s previous failures. While the 2024 and 2025 MOTs were largely clean, the 2023 and 2024 failures—particularly the major defect of a fractured offside rear coil spring and the near-side front drive shaft joint boot failure—highlight a pattern of wear-related issues that, though not immediately critical, suggest ongoing mechanical stress. The advisories from the latest test, such as brake binding and worn suspension bushes, indicate that while the vehicle is currently roadworthy, further deterioration in these components could compromise safety if left unaddressed. The absence of dangerous failures in the last two tests suggests that maintenance efforts may have been timely, but the buyer should remain vigilant about the recurring wear advisories, especially the brake system and suspension, which are critical for handling and stability. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 101,218 miles at the age of approximately 11 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 9,202 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the MOT history reveals some inconsistencies in mileage accumulation, with significant gaps between tests and occasional rapid increases, particularly between 2022 and 2023, where the spring failure was recorded. This could imply either variable usage patterns—such as periods of heavy or light use—or potential neglect in maintenance during certain intervals. The drive shaft joint failure in 2024 suggests that the vehicle may have encountered rough or uneven driving conditions, which can accelerate wear on drivetrain components. Buyers should consider that higher mileage, even within typical limits, increases the likelihood of consumable wear, such as in the brake pads, suspension bushes, and drive shaft seals, which were flagged in the latest MOT. For the prospective buyer, the most urgent concerns stem from the recurring advisories and past failures, particularly the brake binding and worn suspension bushes, which may indicate misalignment or excessive play in the front suspension. On a test drive, listen for clunking noises from the suspension, especially when transitioning between rough and smooth road surfaces, as this could signal worn or broken suspension arms or bushes. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, particularly on the near-side front tyres, which were already worn close to the legal limit and showed a bulge in the 2024 MOT, suggesting potential structural damage or excessive load. Inspect the brake system for any signs of binding, such as uneven brake pedal travel or a spongy or shuddering feel when braking, which could indicate warped discs or worn pads. The fractured coil spring in 2022 underscores the need to examine the rear suspension for further deterioration, including checking for excessive sag or unusual noises when driving over bumps. In addition to the mechanical checks, the buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection for signs of age-related degradation. Given the vehicle’s age and the recorded mileage, inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with moderate usage over time. Verify the condition of the near-side rear tyre, which showed cracking in the 2024 MOT, and consider replacing it if further damage or excessive wear is evident. Check the battery for signs of corrosion around terminals or a weak hold on the starter motor, as older vehicles of this age may struggle with electrical systems due to battery degradation or parasitic loads. Fluid levels should be topped up to manufacturer specifications, with particular attention to the brake fluid, which can absorb moisture and degrade over time, even if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. Review the service history for any missing or outdated maintenance, such as timing belt replacement or exhaust emissions servicing, which are critical for longevity and compliance with emissions regulations. Finally, consider a professional inspection of the drivetrain, especially the front drive shaft joint, to confirm that the boot failure in 2024 has been addressed and that no further ingress of contaminants is occurring.