2016 Vauxhall Astra 1.6L Diesel · WM66 ABO

This Vauxhall Astra has demonstrated a concerning pattern of repeated MOT failures despite passing tests just days later, most recently on 2026-01-02. The back-to-back failures at identical mileage—128,747—suggest a deliberate or technical anomaly in the testing process rather than genuine roadworthiness. However, the absence of recorded defects in any of the five tests from 2024 to 2026 implies that no critical failings were consistently overlooked. The most recent pass on 2026-01-02 remains valid for only three months, meaning the vehicle’s current roadworthiness status is technically uncertain beyond that date. The recorded mileage of 128,747 miles over a decade—roughly 12,875 miles annually—indicates unusually high usage for a vehicle of this age. The gap between the 2024-01-15 test at 106,338 miles and the next failure at 125,489 miles (a span of 19,151 miles in just over two years) suggests accelerated wear, potentially from aggressive driving or deferred maintenance. The lack of advisories or defects in any test, however, means no specific components were flagged as failing to meet minimum standards during those intervals. Given the repeated failures at identical mileage, a buyer should prioritise verifying the testing process—particularly whether the vehicle was subjected to the same test twice in quick succession. Beyond that, the high mileage demands thorough inspection of suspension bushes, coil springs, and rear brake calipers, as these are common failure points in vehicles with this level of usage. The absence of recorded defects does not preclude hidden corrosion in wheel arches, subframe areas, or exhaust systems, which often develop between MOT cycles. A pre-purchase inspection should also check for uneven tyre wear, which could indicate alignment or suspension issues, and confirm the integrity of the exhaust system, given the age and mileage. The most critical observation remains the repeated failures at the same mileage, which warrants further clarification from the seller. Without evidence of genuine mechanical issues, the vehicle’s roadworthiness remains speculative beyond the current MOT expiry.