2018 Vauxhall Vivaro 1.6L Diesel · VN68 AAJ

The most recent DVSA MOT test on the Vauxhall Vivaro, conducted on 2026-06-08, resulted in a pass with two advisories related to the nearside and offside rear coil springs, both classified under 5.3.1(b)(i) for corrosion. This outcome follows a consistent pattern of clean MOT results from the preceding three years, indicating a stable maintenance history without critical failures. The presence of advisories—rather than failures—suggests that the structural integrity of the coil springs is compromised but not yet to a point where the vehicle would fail the MOT. These advisories are not indicative of an immediate safety risk but highlight a recurring issue that requires attention before potential failure, particularly given the vehicle’s age and accumulated mileage. The recorded mileage of 94,037 miles for the 2018 Vauxhall Vivaro reflects a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 11,755 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a vehicle of this age and class. This figure does not suggest excessive wear from high mileage alone, but it does imply that the vehicle has been in regular service rather than being kept in a stationary condition for prolonged periods. Without evidence of significant gaps in usage or rapid mileage accumulation, the wear patterns on consumables such as tyres, brakes, and fluids are likely to be consistent with typical operational demands. However, the advisories on the coil springs warrant closer inspection, as prolonged exposure to moisture or road debris over many years can accelerate corrosion, particularly in areas prone to standing water or poor drainage. For prospective buyers, the most critical immediate checks should focus on the suspension system, given the advisories on the rear coil springs. Visually inspect the springs for any signs of deformation, rust, or excessive sagging, and listen for unusual noises during the test drive, such as clunks or rattles when the vehicle is driven over bumps or when the suspension is fully compressed and released. The springs should be free of binding, and any movement should be smooth without excessive play. Additionally, check the condition of the rear suspension bushes and control arms for signs of wear, such as excessive play or a grinding noise when cornering or over rough roads. If the springs are found to be severely corroded or broken, the vehicle may require costly rear suspension replacement, which could include new dampers, bushings, and potentially the rear axle assembly. Beyond the suspension, the vehicle’s age and mileage warrant thorough checks on several other components to ensure long-term reliability. Inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur over time even with low mileage, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. Verify that the tread depth meets the legal minimum and that the tyres are evenly worn, which could indicate alignment or suspension issues. Check the brake system for signs of corrosion on the discs and linings, particularly on the rear brakes where standing can exacerbate rust buildup. Listen for any brake shudder or pulsation during braking, which may signal warped discs or worn brake components. The 12V battery should be tested for charge retention and overall health, as older vehicles are more susceptible to failure from prolonged disuse or high mileage. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, consider verifying that the service book records have been completed for fluid servicing, such as the oil change, brake fluid flush, and coolant replacement, as these are time-based rather than mileage-dependent and critical for maintaining performance and preventing premature failure.