2017 Vauxhall Vivaro 1.6L Diesel · TP16 LAN

The latest MOT test on 2026-01-14 resulted in a failure due to a major defect in the nearside track rod end ball joint exhibiting excessive play, which is a critical failure under DVSA standards (2.1.3 (b) (i)). This marks a significant deviation from the previous five years of clean MOT results, where only minor advisories—such as worn Macpherson strut bushes, thin brake pads, or non-functional DRLs—were recorded. The presence of this major failure suggests either a neglected or poorly maintained suspension system, potentially indicating underlying issues with the vehicle’s steering linkage or associated components. While the failure itself is not directly linked to the previous advisories, the pattern of recurring suspension-related wear points to a broader problem with the vehicle’s long-term maintenance history, warranting immediate attention to prevent further deterioration. The recorded mileage of 73,610 miles for a 2017 Vauxhall Vivaro represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 8,179 miles, which is typical for a vehicle of this age and class. However, the combination of this mileage with the recent MOT failure suggests either a period of higher-than-average usage or a lack of regular servicing, which could accelerate wear on critical components like the track rod ends and suspension bushes. The advisories from previous MOTs, particularly those related to worn Macpherson strut bushes and thin brake pads, imply that the vehicle has been subjected to stress beyond standard wear and tear, potentially due to rough driving conditions or infrequent maintenance. For a buyer, this mileage alone does not justify concern without the context of the mechanical history, but the failure of the track rod end ball joint—often a high-stress component—should prompt a thorough inspection of the entire steering and suspension system. For a prospective buyer, the most urgent action is to inspect the steering and suspension components for signs of further deterioration. The major failure of the nearside track rod end ball joint requires immediate replacement, as excessive play can lead to misalignment, poor handling, and increased risk of accidents. On a test drive, listen for unusual clunks or rattles in the steering area, particularly when turning sharply or over bumps, which may indicate loose or failing suspension components. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, as misaligned steering or worn bushings can cause lateral movement, leading to premature tyre degradation. Additionally, visually inspect the track rod ends and ball joints for signs of oil leaks, corrosion, or excessive wear on the bushings themselves. Beyond the suspension, verify that the brake system is functioning correctly—test for a firm pedal response, no excessive vibration during braking, and ensure no binding in the calipers or discs, which could be exacerbated by the thin brake pads noted in previous advisories. Given the vehicle’s age and the pattern of wear observed in the MOT history, a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection should also include a check of the engine bay for signs of fluid leaks, particularly from the Macpherson struts, which are prone to bush wear. Inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even at moderate mileages due to prolonged exposure to UV light and road salt, especially in a UK climate. Verify the condition of the 12V battery, as standing vehicles or those with infrequent use can suffer from corrosion or reduced capacity, which may not be apparent during a test drive but could lead to electrical issues. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in recent years, consider checking the service book for any missing or outdated fluid servicing records, such as brake fluid, differential fluid, and coolant, as these can degrade over time regardless of mileage. If the vehicle has been in storage for extended periods, address any standing corrosion on the undercarriage, particularly around wheel arches and exhaust components, to prevent long-term structural integrity issues.