2010 Vauxhall Zafira 1.9L Diesel · SC10 LRK

The most recent MOT, carried out on 10 March 2026, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle currently meets the statutory safety and emissions standards. Over the preceding two‑year period the MOT history shows a clear shift from serious mechanical failures – notably a fractured off‑side front coil spring and an excessively worn ball‑joint in January 2024 – to a series of minor advisories in early 2025 and a clean pass in 2026. This pattern suggests that the major suspension faults identified in 2024 have been remedied and that the vehicle’s maintenance regime has improved, although the persistence of minor issues such as an oil leak and steering‑rack play warrants continued attention. At 167,100 miles the car averages roughly 10,400 miles per annum, which is typical for a sixteen‑year‑old family saloon. The mileage record does not reveal any prolonged periods of inactivity that would raise concerns about corrosion from standing, nor does it indicate an unusually high annual run‑off that would accelerate wear of drivetrain components. Consequently, the wear observed on consumables – tyres, brakes and suspension – is consistent with the recorded mileage and age, but the relatively high total mileage does mean that many wear items are likely approaching the end of their service life. Prospective buyers should focus on the items that have recurred in the MOT data. The oil leak, although classified as non‑excessive, should be inspected for source – a leaking valve cover gasket or oil filter housing can lead to oil on the exhaust or under‑carriage, potentially causing fire hazards or premature wear of rubber components. The near‑side steering rack inner joint play may manifest as a vague looseness or vague “knocking” when turning at low speed; a thorough check of the rack bushings and tie‑rod ends is advisable, and any excessive free play should be corrected to avoid loss of steering precision. The front tyres were flagged as being close to the legal tread limit in early 2024 and remain an advisory in 2025, so a fresh measurement of tread depth and an inspection for sidewall cracking is essential – replacement is likely required within the next few thousand miles. Finally, the prior coil‑spring fracture and ball‑joint wear on the off‑side front suspension indicate that the front suspension geometry has been heavily stressed; the buyer should verify that the spring has been replaced with the correct specification, that the new ball joint is correctly torqued, and that all associated bushings and mounts are free of corrosion or cracks. During a test drive, listen for any clunking or creaking over bumps, feel for any wandering or delayed return of the steering wheel, and ensure that braking is firm without pulsation, which could hint at warped discs or uneven pad wear. Beyond the specific MOT items, age‑related checks are prudent. Examine the 12 V battery terminals for corrosion and assess the battery’s cranking performance, as a sixteen‑year‑old battery may be nearing the end of its service life. Inspect all fluid reservoirs – coolant, brake fluid, power‑steering fluid and washer fluid – for signs of discoloration, sediment or low levels, and consider a full fluid change if the service history does not confirm recent top‑ups. Verify the condition of the exhaust system for rust or perforations, particularly around the manifold and pipe joints, and look for any signs of dampness under the vehicle that could indicate a leak. Finally, confirm that the service book contains regular oil changes and that any timing belt or chain service intervals recommended by Vauxhall have been observed, as neglect in these areas can lead to catastrophic engine failure.