2017 Vauxhall Adam 1.4L Petrol · SG67 LDC

The Vauxhall Adam’s most recent MOT history reveals a concerning instability in its roadworthiness, particularly in the final 12 months. The vehicle failed its test on 2025-05-09 at 71,078 miles with no recorded defects, only to pass the subsequent retest just five days later at the same mileage—an anomaly that suggests either a clerical error or a last-minute correction of an undocumented fault. The previous clean pass in May 2024 at 58,844 miles and the dual tests in April 2023 (both at 43,565 miles) indicate no consistent pattern of wear, yet the retest gap raises questions about whether underlying issues were overlooked or hastily addressed. Without visible defects logged, the cause remains speculative, but the lack of transparency in this period is a red flag for potential hidden maintenance neglect. The recorded mileage of 71,079 miles over nine years reflects a steady but unremarkable usage pattern—approximately 7,900 miles annually, which aligns with typical light-to-moderate driving. There are no abrupt spikes or prolonged gaps that would suggest extreme underuse or aggressive driving, though the absence of service records means wear on high-consumption items like suspension bushes, brake pads, and timing belt components cannot be confirmed. The most notable irregularity lies in the April 2023 dual tests at identical mileages, which implies either a test centre error or a deliberate retest without intervening repairs—both scenarios warrant further scrutiny. The 2024 to 2025 interval shows consistent mileage accumulation, but the abrupt retest without explanation disrupts an otherwise stable progression. Given this history, a prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system, particularly the rear calipers and discs, as the failed retest suggests potential binding or uneven wear. The suspension—including coil springs, bushes, and dampers—should be examined for uneven sagging or corrosion, especially around the wheel arches and sills, where rust can compromise structural integrity. Tyre tread depth and uniformity are critical; failing twice on tread suggests either basic upkeep was skipped or the tyres were replaced just before testing. Finally, the engine bay should be checked for oil leaks, timing belt tensioner wear, and corrosion on the exhaust system, as these are common silent failures in vehicles of this age. The lack of documented defects does not guarantee absence of issues, but it does indicate the tester may have missed critical areas—an inspection by a qualified mechanic is essential.