2013 Vauxhall Astra 1.4L Petrol · SW13 FUM

The 2013 Vauxhall Astra presents a stable and improving maintenance trend, culminating in a clean pass on 23 May 2026 at 67,335 miles with only a minor child-seat inspection advisory. The most recent test is reassuringly current, falling just under three weeks before today's date of 17 June 2026, confirming the vehicle was roadworthy at the point of last inspection. The MOT record shows a clear upward trajectory in upkeep quality. A fractured nearside rear coil spring failure in January 2023 was a serious structural defect, yet the car returned a completely clean pass by June 2024, suggesting the suspension repair was carried out properly and no further faults developed. The minor front exhaust gas leak flagged in May 2025 was also rectified before the retest on the same day. This pattern indicates a keeper who addressed defects promptly rather than allowing them to accumulate. The mileage profile is notably low for a 13-year-old vehicle, averaging roughly 5,180 miles per year. The jump from 47,969 miles in June 2024 to 58,820 miles in May 2025 represents an 11-month accumulation of 10,851 miles, a marked increase compared to prior years. This spike suggests a change in usage pattern, possibly a new owner using the car for regular commuting or longer journeys. The subsequent climb to 67,335 miles by May 2026 adds another 8,515 miles in twelve months, confirming sustained higher mileage use. Buyers should be aware that components such as brake discs, suspension bushes, and tyres may now be experiencing wear rates more typical of a higher-mileage vehicle, despite the relatively modest overall odometer reading. Prospective buyers should focus their in-person inspection on the rear suspension, given the history of a fractured nearside rear coil spring in January 2023. Check for uneven ride height, fresh corrosion around the spring seats, and any signs of a replacement spring that may not match the offside original. The front exhaust system warrants close examination for heat damage or soot staining around the joints, particularly where the minor gas leak was recorded in May 2025. A visual check of the exhaust manifold and flexi joint under load is advisable. The reversing lamp fault from the same 2025 failure was electrical in nature, so test all reverse lights and associated wiring for reliable operation. Tyre condition also deserves attention. Both front tyres were flagged as worn close to the legal limit in January 2023, and with the recent increase in annual mileage, uneven wear patterns may have re-emerged. Inspect the inner edges of all four tyres and check the tread depth against the 1.6mm minimum. The windscreen washer defect from 2023 was minor, but confirm the jets are operational and the pump delivers consistent pressure. Overall, the MOT record reflects a vehicle that has moved from a period of neglected maintenance to one of consistent fault resolution, making it a reasonable prospect provided the physical checks confirm the repairs have held.