2014 Vauxhall Zafira 2.0L Diesel · ST64 CZF

The 2014 Vauxhall Zafira passed its most recent MOT on 26 May 2026, just three weeks ago at 95,874 miles, but the maintenance picture is mixed. The car failed its prior test on 23 May 2026 at the same recorded mileage, meaning a retest was required within three days. Several serious defects were resolved between the two tests, including a damaged and seriously weakened offside front Macpherson strut, a split offside front CV joint boot, and significantly worn rear brake discs. That pattern suggests a reactive repair approach rather than proactive servicing. Corrosion advisories persist across both 2026 tests, indicating the underlying structural deterioration has been managed rather than fully arrested. The mileage progression tells a fairly consistent story. The car covered roughly 6,000 miles between June 2024 at 80,017 miles and June 2025 at 89,725 miles, then sat at 95,874 miles from late May 2026 through the present date of 18 June 2026. That final jump of about 6,150 miles in under a month is unusual and warrants scrutiny. It could reflect a genuine burst of use, or it could point to a discrepancy in the recorded figures. The annualised average of roughly 8,000 miles is typical for this age of vehicle, so overall usage appears normal, but the recent spike should be verified against service records and the physical condition of consumables. A buyer should focus their inspection on the front suspension and drivetrain first. The 2025 failure flagged a fractured nearside front coil spring and a fractured offside rear coil spring, both of which were replaced before the June 2025 pass. Corrosion on coil springs has appeared repeatedly across every test from 2024 onward, so all four springs need close visual examination for pitting, cracking, or previous weld repair. The offside front Macpherson strut and CV joint boot were only just replaced in May 2026, so check for correct alignment, even tyre wear, and confirm the boot has been properly secured with no fresh grease splatter indicating a repeat failure. The rear subframe mounting area and rear axle bushings remain flagged as corroded in both 2026 tests, and rear brake pipes have shown corrosion covered in grease or material since at least 2024. That is a structural concern, not merely cosmetic, particularly on a vehicle of this age. Inspect the rear subframe mounting points with a torch and probe if possible, and examine the brake pipe runs for pitting beneath any surface contamination. The rear shock absorber casings were also noted as corroded in both 2026 tests, which could indicate water ingress and compromised damping. Given the recurring corrosion theme across subframe, springs, brake pipes, and shock casings, a thorough underside inspection on a ramp is essential before purchase.