2001 Vauxhall Astravan 1.7L Diesel · WV51 BFE
2001 Vauxhall Astravan (1.7L, diesel). First registered 03/09/2001. Recorded mileage 186,258 miles. MOT status: Expired.
- Make & Model
- VAUXHALL ASTRAVAN
- Year / Origin
- 2001 · Bristol
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 06/05/2024
- Road Tax
- —
- Recorded Mileage
- 186,258 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- Diesel · 1.7L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- Diesel
- Year
- 2001
- Engine
- 1700cc
WV51 BFE Key Findings
- 2 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 08/05/2023
- 186,258 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 5 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring suspension items (8 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Technical Specifications
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Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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WV51 BFE Mileage History
- 04/02/2022184,961 mi
- 08/05/2023186,258 mi+1,297 mi
Average of roughly 1,035 miles per year across 2 recorded odometer readings.
WV51 BFE MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
2 MOT tests are recorded for this 2001 Vauxhall Astravan (WV51 BFE) between February 2022 and May 2023.
The record contains 2 passes and 0 failures.
The record shows no MOT failures, although 15 advisory notices note items to monitor.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Suspension (8 issues), Tyres (2 issues), Brakes (2 issues), Lighting (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 15 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with extreme caution as this high-mileage van shows significant structural and suspension rust issues. While it has passed its MOTs, the persistent nature of corrosion suggests it is nearing expensive structural repairs.
The primary focus for this vehicle must be a thorough inspection of the chassis. The MOT history repeatedly cites corrosion on the rear suspension arm attachment brackets and mounting areas. You need to determine if this is merely surface rust or deep structural decay, as the latter will lead to an MOT failure in the near future. Additionally, check the condition of the brake pipes which have been noted as corroded for several years, suggesting they may be approaching the point of failure.
Review the service history meticulously for oil change intervals. Given the recurring 'oil leak' advisories over many years, you want to ensure the engine has been well-maintained despite these minor weeping. Ask the seller about the front anti-roll bar linkage and track rod end joints, as these have been flagged with 'slight play' in multiple MOT tests, indicating they are due for replacement soon.
The 1.7L diesel engine is generally relatively efficient, though at this mileage, fuel economy may vary based on engine wear and clogged injectors. Tax is typically in a lower band for this age, and insurance groups for older Vauxhall vans are generally affordable.
However, maintenance costs will likely be higher than average due to the high mileage and the inevitable need for wear parts like suspension bushes, tyres, and exhaust components. Expect an annual running cost of approximately £1,200-£1,500 when accounting for fuel, routine maintenance, and potential repairs.
Focus your attention on the rear suspension and the subframe. The MOT history consistently mentions corrosion in the rear component mounting areas and arm brackets. Use a torch to check for flaking or thinning metal that could indicate structural weakness. Also inspect the front subframe mounting points, which were flagged for corrosion in 2022.
Check the braking system specifically, as the front brake pipes have been noted as corroded and covered in grease (which can sometimes be used to hide rust). Look for any bulging in the rubber hoses. Finally, check the engine bay for signs of active oil leaks to ensure the 'not excessive' leaks mentioned in the past haven't worsened into a significant drip-leak.
This 2001 Vauxhall Astravan is a heavy-use diesel vehicle with over 186,000 miles on the clock. While it has maintained MOT status, the history reveals a long-term pattern of corrosion across the rear suspension, subframe, and brake pipes. The vehicle also shows recurring reports of minor oil leaks, indicating a van that has worked hard for its age and mileage.
The 1.7 DDI engine in this era is known for longevity but can suffer from head gasket and injector issues at high mileages.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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