2013 Vauxhall Astra 1.7L Diesel · VE62 MVG

The 2013 Vauxhall Astra presents a mixed maintenance picture that has deteriorated noticeably in the most recent MOT cycle. The July 2025 test at 150,920 miles resulted in a failure on the initial attempt, followed by a pass later the same day after addressing the windscreen washer fluid fault. However, the underlying advisories remained unresolved: an oil leak classified as not excessive, a deteriorating front registration plate, a perishing nearside rear tyre, and a corroded coil spring. Comparing this to the clean pass recorded in July 2024 at 143,446 miles, the trend is clearly worsening. The vehicle has accumulated multiple minor but persistent defects within a short timeframe, suggesting reactive rather than proactive maintenance by the most recent keeper. The mileage progression is broadly consistent with typical use for a thirteen-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 11,600 miles annually. The jump from 143,446 miles in July 2024 to 150,920 miles by July 2025 represents roughly 7,500 miles in twelve months, which sits comfortably within normal parameters. A notable gap exists between the June 2023 test at 140,336 miles and the July 2024 test, covering approximately 3,100 miles over thirteen months, indicating lighter use or a period of reduced activity during that interval. The record itself is reasonably complete with annual tests, though the cluster of three tests within two days in July 2025 suggests the vehicle required multiple attempts to achieve compliance. The recurring coil spring corrosion flagged in both June 2023 and July 2025 warrants close physical inspection, as this points to an ongoing issue with underbody protection or drainage rather than a one-off defect. The rear brake discs were noted as worn but within limits in 2023, and with nearly 11,000 additional miles since, a buyer should verify disc thickness and condition before purchase. The persistent oil leak, though repeatedly downplayed as not excessive, could indicate deteriorating gaskets or seals that may worsen without intervention. The perishing nearside rear tyre appearing across multiple tests suggests either a slow puncture, sidewall damage from kerb contact, or simply aged rubber that has been left unaddressed. Any pre-purchase inspection should prioritise a thorough underbody examination for corrosion beyond the springs, including subframes, suspension mounting points, and brake lines, alongside a compression test to rule out the elevated exhaust emissions recorded in the failed July 2025 attempt.