2012 Vauxhall Insignia 2.0L Diesel · SD62 EXA

A serious front‑suspension concern dominates this Insignia’s MOT record – the 13 March 2026 test recorded a dangerous near‑side front suspension arm ball‑joint likely to detach and a major off‑side ball‑joint excess wear, prompting a failure. The subsequent pass on 16 March 2026 carries only rear‑sub‑frame and rear‑suspension mounting corrosion advisories, implying that the front‑suspension faults were addressed, but the presence of those dangerous failures highlights a critical repair that must be verified before purchase. At 145,788 mi spread over 14 years the vehicle averages roughly 10,400 mi per annum, a mileage pattern that sits squarely within normal UK usage for a model of this age. The MOT history shows no significant gaps, with annual testing from 2019 onward, suggesting the odometer reading reflects consistent on‑road operation rather than long periods of storage. That mileage level places the drivetrain, brakes and bushings into a mid‑life wear bracket where consumables are expected to be approaching the end of their service intervals. When test‑driving, place particular emphasis on the front suspension. Feel for any looseness or play in the steering wheel, especially when turning at low speed, and listen for clunking or knocking noises over bumps that could indicate residual ball‑joint wear or mounting issues. Observe tyre wear patterns for asymmetry that might betray a misaligned or compromised suspension arm. In the rear, probe for creaks or flex when applying throttle or braking, and inspect the sub‑frame for surface rust that could be advancing beyond the advisory level; any excessive movement or audible squeaks may signal that the corrosion has begun to affect structural rigidity. The windscreen chip recorded in 2022 does not impair visibility, but a visual inspection is advisable to confirm it has not propagated. Since no brake, tyre or emission defects appear in the MOT history, the braking system should be functional, yet a professional check of the brake discs, pads and hydraulic lines is prudent given the vehicle’s age. Finally, obtain documentation of the repair work carried out after the 2026 front‑suspension failure and consider a comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection focused on the suspension arms, sub‑frame integrity and any rust‑affected mounting points before committing.