1997 Vauxhall Vectra 1.8L Petrol · R473 ADX
1997 Vauxhall Vectra (1.8L, petrol). First registered 03 Nov 1997. Recorded mileage 96,436 miles. MOT expired on 26 Mar 2023.
- Make & Model
- VAUXHALL VECTRA
- Year / Origin
- 1997 · Reading
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 26 Mar 2023
- Road Tax
- Untaxed (29 Mar 2023)
- Recorded Mileage
- 96,436 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.8L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
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R473 ADX Key Findings
- 1 MOT test recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 25/03/2022
- 96,436 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 5 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring tyres items (2 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
R473 ADX MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
1 MOT test are recorded for this 1997 Vauxhall Vectra (R473 ADX) between March 2022 and March 2022.
The record contains 1 pass and 0 failures.
The record shows no MOT failures, although 5 advisory notices note items to monitor.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Tyres (2 issues), Exhaust & Emissions (1 issue), Brakes (1 issue), Lighting (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 5 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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MOT Roadworthiness: Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with extreme caution unless you are a mechanically inclined buyer looking for a cheap project. This vehicle shows a history of persistent structural corrosion and mechanical wear that suggests it is nearing the end of its life.
When inspecting this Vectra, focus heavily on the chassis and underside. The MOT history repeatedly notes corrosion on suspension arms, seat belt anchorages, and brake pipes. Check for any deep structural rust in the sills and floor pans, as these are expensive to repair and will devalue the car.
Examine the steering rack carefully, as minor seepage has been noted since at least 2018. You should also check the brake system for genuine corrosion, as multiple pipes have been flagged over the years. Ensure there is a service history that accounts for the oil leaks mentioned in recent records, as these can range from simple gaskets to more costly engine seal failures.
The 1.8-litre petrol engine is relatively simple but not modern by today standards; expect around 30-35 mpg depending on driving. It falls into a relatively low tax band, and insurance should be affordable given the age and model.
Maintenance costs may be frequent due to the age of the vehicle; parts like suspension bushes, arms, and exhaust components are showing age. Estimate annual costs including fuel, tax, and basic maintenance at approximately £900-£1,200.
Look under the car to inspect the suspension arms and mounting points. The MOT history shows a trend of corrosion in these areas, so check if this has progressed to structural weakness. Pay close attention to the front seat belt anchorages, as corrosion was noted there previously, which is a critical safety failure point.
Check the steering for knocks or play, as rack seepage has been a recurring advisory. Additionally, inspect the brake pipes for scaling or corrosion and check the exhaust system for leaks, specifically the front pipe which was flagged in the most recent 2022 test.
This 1997 Vauxhall Vectra has covered nearly 97,000 miles, which is relatively high for its age. While it has passed its most recent MOT, the history reveals a recurring pattern of corrosion in suspension arms, brake pipes, and seat belt anchorages. The presence of multiple advisories regarding oil leaks, steering seepage, and exhaust issues indicates a vehicle that has been maintained with minimum requirements rather than preventative care.
The Vectra of this era is known for being a decent practical cruiser but is prone to rust issues and electrical gremlins as it ages.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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