2015 Vauxhall Vivaro 1.6L Diesel · SC15 FHF

The most recent MOT, carried out on 15 July 2026, resulted in a failure for two rear position lamps – the nearside rear lamp showing a cracked lens and the off‑side rear lamp not functioning – both classified as major defects. Over the preceding three years the vehicle has shown a pattern of intermittent passes punctuated by serious safety‑related failures, notably a fractured front coil spring, excessive play in a front track‑rod ball joint, dangerously thin front brake pads and a severely worn rear brake disc. This trajectory indicates a deteriorating maintenance record rather than a stabilising one, with several critical components either failing or approaching the end of their service life. At 106,256 mi the van averages just under 10 000 mi per annum, which sits comfortably within the normal usage envelope for a 2015 model. The mileage does not suggest any periods of extreme short‑term abuse, but it does mean that wear items such as suspension bushings, steering linkages, brake pads and discs will be well into their service intervals. The relatively steady annual run‑off also implies the vehicle has not spent prolonged periods idle, reducing the likelihood of severe corrosion from standing, yet age‑related degradation of rubber components and fluid quality remains a concern. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the suspension and steering assembly. The fractured nearside front coil spring and the excessive play reported on the off‑side front track‑rod ball joint are indicative of possible worn bushings, deteriorating anti‑roll bar linkages and compromised spring integrity; on a test drive these faults may manifest as clunking noises over bumps, a loose or vague steering feel and uneven tyre wear. The rear brake disc, flagged as pitted and scored, together with the dangerously thin front pads, demand a thorough inspection of the entire braking system – look for uneven pad wear, brake pedal pulsation, squealing or grinding noises, and verify that the discs are not approaching the minimum thickness. Replacing the front coil spring, both front track‑rod ends, the anti‑roll bar ball joint and the rear disc, along with fitting new front pads, would be prudent to restore full safety compliance. Beyond the documented defects, age‑related checks are essential. Examine all four tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot or tread loss, especially if the tyre age exceeds three years, regardless of tread depth. Verify the 12 V battery’s cranking voltage and check for any signs of sulphation or leaking. Inspect the engine bay for any fluid leaks, corrosion on the exhaust system and the condition of the coolant, brake and power‑steering fluids, as these typically require replacement on a calendar basis after five to ten years. A full service history, recent oil change stamps and evidence of any suspension or brake component replacements will give further confidence that the van has been maintained appropriately for its age and mileage.