2016 Vauxhall Adam 1.2L Petrol · VX66 RYR

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT test on 6 August 2026 with no defects recorded, which represents the most favourable outcome in the available history. However, the overall maintenance trend is mixed and warrants careful attention. The car failed its test on 24 July 2026 just thirteen days earlier on major defects concerning serious fluid leaks from both front shock absorbers, which is a concerning pair of simultaneous failures indicative of a broader suspension component deterioration rather than an isolated incident. Earlier in 2024, another failure was recorded for significantly worn nearside front brake disc, an offside front brake disc advisory for pitting and scoring, and a brake lever with insufficient reserve travel, alongside a rear registration plate lamp defect. The 2025 test passed but carried minor advisories on both front outer steering linkage ball joint dust covers. Taken together, the pattern suggests a vehicle that has recently been subject to braking and suspension wear issues, with the front axle appearing to be the principal area of concern over the past two years. Against a ten-year vehicle age, the recorded mileage of 64,090 miles equates to an average of roughly 6,409 miles annually, which sits comfortably within typical parameters for a small urban-focused hatchback of this type. There are no extended gaps in the MOT history that would suggest prolonged standing, and the mileage progression between tests appears broadly consistent with regular though modest use. This level of annual mileage is generally favourable for long-term mechanical integrity, as it tends to reduce the risk of corrosion through standing and keeps seals, bushes, and drivetrain components functioning normally. That said, the brake and suspension wear observed indicates that even modest mileage use over a decade accumulates sufficient stress on consumable components to require periodic replacement, particularly for items exposed to kerbing, potholes, and the rough urban road surfaces commonly encountered by a car of this class. Given the recent suspension failure, a prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the condition of the replacement front shock absorbers, confirming that quality units were fitted and that the installation was carried out professionally. On a test drive, listen for any clonks, knocks, or knocking noises from the front end over uneven surfaces, which could indicate worn top mounts, suspension bushes, or coil springs. The steering ball joint dust cover advisories from 2025 should also be followed up, as perished or split dust covers permit water and grit ingress, accelerating wear of the ball joint itself; symptoms to watch for include vague steering, uneven tyre wear across the front pair, or a knocking sound when turning at low speed. Inspect the front tyres closely for any uneven shoulder wear indicative of suspension geometry issues, and check that the tracking has been checked or adjusted since the shock absorber replacement, as improperly torqued or mismatched front suspension components can quickly degrade tyres. The brake-related advisories from 2024 merit direct physical inspection before purchase. Lift any dust cover or use a torch to examine the visible edge of each front brake disc for a pronounced lip, surface corrosion pitting, or scoring, and confirm whether the discs were skimmed or renewed when the work was carried out. On a test drive, the brake pedal should feel firm and progressive, and there should be no shudder through the steering wheel under firm braking, which would indicate disc runout or warping. Given the vehicle is now ten years old regardless of mileage, a buyer should also verify the age of all tyres, as the sidewall DOT date code will reveal whether they are ageing out due to perished rubber even with legal tread depth; examine all coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid for their last replacement date, and check the 12V battery, which on a ten-year-old car is highly likely approaching the end of its service life. Finally, inspect the rear registration plate lamp operation, confirm the handbrake reserve travel feels positive and holds the car on an incline, and review the service book for consistent annual stamp history to satisfy yourself that the recent failures represent resolved issues rather than neglected ongoing maintenance.