2016 Vauxhall Zafira 1.4L Petrol · SL16 YCD

Across eight consecutive DVSA tests spanning 2019 to 2026, this Zafira has maintained a clean pass record with no failures and only two minor advisories logged in 2024, presenting a relatively stable roadworthiness profile with nothing of structural or mechanical concern ever flagged by the examiner. The most recent test on 7 May 2026 returned a clean pass with no defects recorded, continuing a pattern that has held since 2019 and confirming that the vehicle has consistently met the statutory standards for brakes, tyres, suspension, exhaust emissions, lighting, and structural integrity throughout its testing life. The 2024 advisories relating to a slightly perished nearside front tyre and rear brake pads wearing thin are the only blemishes on an otherwise unblemished record, and both represent routine consumable wear typical of a vehicle of this age and mileage rather than indicators of any underlying defect. The recorded mileage of 52,542 miles against a 2016 registration equates to an annual accumulation of roughly 5,250 miles, which is notably low for a ten-year-old vehicle and suggests either limited daily use, a period of inactivity, or a combination of both. The MOT history shows continuous annual testing with no recorded SORN gaps between 2019 and 2026, so the vehicle has not been formally off the road during that window, though the low annual mileage implies that many of the wear-related components such as brake discs, suspension bushes, and tyres may have aged through environmental exposure and standing time rather than through heavy mechanical use. The mileage progression between tests appears broadly consistent with the stated low usage pattern, and there is no evidence of any anomalous jumps that might suggest clocking or incorrect readings. For a prospective buyer, the most relevant items to verify on inspection are those flagged in the 2024 advisory, namely the nearside front tyre and the rear brake pads. The tyre advisory noted slight damage, cracking or perishing, which on a low-mileage vehicle of this age is often a function of rubber degradation from age and UV exposure rather than wear, so all four tyres should be inspected for sidewall cracking, tread depth, and manufacturing date stamps, and any tyre older than six years should be regarded as a replacement item regardless of remaining tread. The rear brake pad advisory means the pads have continued to wear since 2024 and may now be at or near the replacement threshold, so a physical inspection of pad thickness and disc condition is worthwhile, with attention paid to any scoring on the disc surface or uneven wear that could indicate a binding caliper. On a test drive, listen for any clonks or knocks from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, which would suggest worn lower wishbone bushes, a known wear point on the Zafira, and check for any pulling to one side under braking that could indicate a sticking caliper or uneven pad wear. Given the low annual mileage, particular attention should be paid to components that degrade with standing rather than use, such as the condition of the rear brake calipers and handbrake mechanism, which can seize when rarely operated, and the state of the underbody and brake pipes, which should be examined for any surface corrosion given that the vehicle has spent considerable time exposed to the elements. The exhaust system should be checked for corrosion at the mounting points and joints, and a visual inspection underneath for any oil leaks from the engine or transmission is advisable. A test drive should include firm brake applications from moderate speed to confirm straight-line stopping without pulling or vibration through the pedal, and the handbrake should be tested on an incline to confirm it holds securely without excessive travel, as low-mileage vehicles frequently suffer from rear caliper seizure that does not present as a formal MOT failure until it is too late to rectify cheaply.