2013 Vauxhall Insignia 2.0L Diesel · WR13 WFV

The most recent MOT, dated 2 April 2026, was passed but returned three advisories concerning a slightly noisy near‑side front wheel bearing, front‑tyre tread depth approaching the legal limit on both sides and a similar condition on the off‑side front tyre. The preceding test on 31 March 2026 had failed solely for a non‑functional off‑side front position lamp, with the same tyre and bearing advisories already noted. Across the last six years the record shows a pattern of recurring tyre wear warnings, occasional exhaust‑box cracking and a minor shock‑absorber oil mist, while the majority of tests have otherwise passed. This indicates a generally stable MOT outcome but a gradual accumulation of wear‑related items that have not been fully addressed, suggesting the maintenance trend is stagnating rather than improving. At 75,172 miles for a 2013 model the vehicle averages roughly 5,800 miles per annum, well below the typical UK usage of 10‑12 000 miles per year. The low annual mileage points to light use or periods of prolonged storage, both of which can accelerate age‑related degradation of rubber components, battery cells and corrosion‑prone metal parts. There are no large mileage spikes that would imply heavy short‑term abuse, but the combination of low use and age means that consumables may be near the end of their service life despite the modest total distance. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the front wheel bearings; a slight hum or growl that changes with vehicle speed or cornering may confirm the advisory and could presage bearing failure if the lubrication has deteriorated. The front tyres are already at or below the 3 mm tread threshold on the edges, so a visual inspection for uneven wear, sidewall cracking and bulging is essential, and replacement of both fronts – and possibly the rears if they show age‑related perishing – should be budgeted. Verify that the off‑side front position lamp is now operational and inspect the headlamp housing for corrosion or loose connections, as the previous failure was a safety‑critical fault. The exhaust system shows a cracked centre box and a minor leak dating back to 2020; look for soot or black smoke at the rear, listen for hissing under acceleration, and consider a professional weld or replacement to avoid emissions non‑compliance and potential under‑body corrosion. The light oil mist on the off‑side front shock absorber suggests seal wear; a noticeable loss of rebound control, clunking over bumps or uneven ride height would indicate that the damper may need rebuilding or replacement. Given the vehicle’s age and relatively low mileage, a thorough age‑related inspection is prudent. Examine all tyre sidewalls for dry‑rot, especially on the rear tyre flagged as slightly damaged in 2024, and check for any cracking of rubber hoses or seals. Test the 12 V battery under load, as long periods of inactivity can reduce capacity and cause starting issues. Inspect the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or uneven thickness, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding; any shudder or pulsation when applying the brakes warrants a disc resurfacing or pad replacement. Finally, assess the suspension bushings, control arm joints and the under‑carriage for corrosion, especially around the exhaust mounting points, and confirm that the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed within the manufacturer’s time‑based intervals, as fluids can degrade even when the vehicle is not driven extensively. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the car’s roadworthiness and the likely near‑term maintenance outlay.