2022 Vauxhall Corsa Design 1.2L Petrol · SC22 LDK

The most recent MOT, carried out on 14 August 2026, resulted in a failure. While the test recorded a pass for general safety items, it flagged a major failure for exhaust carbon‑monoxide emissions both at idle and after a second fast idle, and an advisory that the under‑tray was not fully secure. The previous year’s test, dated 7 August 2025, was clean with no recorded defects. This shift from a clean pass to a failed result indicates a deterioration in the vehicle’s condition, particularly in the exhaust and under‑body areas, and suggests that the maintenance trajectory has worsened over the past twelve months. At four years old the car has logged 50,727 miles, equating to roughly 12,700 miles per annum – a mileage level that is high for a Vauxhall Corsa of this age. Such usage points to a relatively aggressive driver profile, meaning consumables such as tyres, brake pads and discs, suspension components and engine oil will have experienced accelerated wear. There are no obvious gaps in the recorded mileage, so the wear is likely to be uniform rather than concentrated from long periods of inactivity, but the cumulative distance does raise the probability of age‑related degradation in rubber and metal parts. The emissions failure is the most pressing issue for a prospective buyer. Excess carbon‑monoxide usually stems from a malfunctioning oxygen sensor, a clogged or failing catalytic converter, or an exhaust leak allowing fresh air to be drawn into the system. On a test drive the car may exhibit a rough idle, a noticeable loss of power under acceleration, or a faint sulphur‑like smell from the exhaust. It is advisable to have a qualified technician perform a diagnostic scan to read any fault codes, inspect the catalytic converter for blockage or damage, and check all exhaust pipe joints and the under‑tray mounting points for corrosion or loosened fasteners. The under‑tray advisory, while not a safety defect, should still be corrected as a loose tray can allow road debris to strike the underside of the vehicle and potentially damage the exhaust or fuel lines. Given the vehicle’s age and high mileage, a comprehensive visual and functional inspection is prudent. Examine the tyre tread depth and sidewall condition for uneven wear, cracking or dry‑rot, especially if the car has spent periods stationary; tyres older than six years should be considered for replacement regardless of tread. Check the suspension bushings, ball joints and coil springs for any play, clunking noises, or signs of corrosion, as high mileage accelerates wear on these components. Inspect the brake discs for scoring, rust, or uneven thickness and the pads for remaining material, and test the handbrake for proper holding. Verify the 12‑volt battery’s cranking voltage and age, as batteries can degrade faster under frequent short trips. Finally, confirm that the service book shows regular oil and filter changes, coolant flushes, and that all fluid levels – brake, power‑steering and transmission – are topped up and free from contamination, as time‑based degradation can affect performance even if mileage appears moderate.