2018 Vauxhall Grandland 1.5L Diesel · VU68 ASX

The most recent DVSA examination on 18 October 2025 resulted in a Pass, with two advisories and one minor defect noted. The advisory items comprise a front oil leak assessed as not excessive, front inner brake disc wear described as pitted or scored but not seriously weakened, and front brake pads wearing thin, alongside a minor entry for a deteriorated nearside front anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover. When viewed alongside the previous test cycles, the overall maintenance trend is broadly stable but with recurring front brake and oil leak advisories suggesting areas that require ongoing attention rather than active deterioration. The 2024 test did produce a failure linked to a significantly worn nearside rear brake disc and dangerous brake pad condition, indicating that rear brake hardware was allowed to wear to a critical state, though subsequent tests have not flagged further rear brake concerns. With approximately 55,589 miles recorded over eight years, this Vauxhall Grandland has averaged roughly 6,949 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and usage profile. There are no significant gaps or sudden mileage spikes in the recorded tests, suggesting reasonably consistent use rather than long periods of standing. This pattern is mechanically favourable, as it reduces the likelihood of calendar-related issues such as seized brake calipers, perished rubber components, and battery degradation, while also indicating normal wear progression on consumable items. Given the recurring front brake disc and pad advisories across multiple tests, a prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front braking system. The discs should be checked for lipping at the outer edge and measured for remaining thickness, as pitted or scored surfaces can reduce braking efficiency and cause brake shudder under heavy application. Pads should be physically inspected for remaining friction material, and caliper slider pins and guide bushes examined for seizing, which is common on higher-mileage vehicles and can lead to uneven pad wear. The persistent front oil leak advisory warrants a visual inspection beneath the vehicle for fresh oil residue on the engine sump, cam cover gasket, and front crankshaft seal area; a small leak today can escalate, so establishing the source and recent oil consumption is prudent. Additionally, the deteriorated anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover should be examined, as a torn boot permits water and grit ingress, accelerating joint wear and potentially producing clonking noises over speed humps or during sharp direction changes. Beyond the recorded defects, a test drive should include listening for suspension knocking or rattling over uneven surfaces, which may indicate worn bushes or drop links, and checking for any pulling to one side under braking that could suggest a binding caliper. The tyres, despite no recent advisories other than a 2023 nearside front edge wear note, should be inspected for age-related sidewall cracking and perishing given that rubber compounds degrade over time regardless of mileage. Given the Grandland is now eight years old, verification of recent servicing is essential, particularly for time-sensitive items such as brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid replacement, along with confirmation that the 12V battery is in good health, as batteries beyond five years frequently struggle in colder conditions. Inspecting the underside for any corrosion on structural and suspension components is also advisable, particularly given UK winter road salt use.