2009 Vauxhall Astra 1.8L Petrol · YP09 TCJ

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the history reveals a trend of escalating age-related component degradation. While the most recent test on May 8, 2026, at 98,708 miles passed with no recorded defects, it immediately followed a failure just two days prior at 98,698 miles due to an exhaust leak affecting rear emissions. This suggests a reactive repair was made specifically to meet testing standards, indicating a reactive rather than proactive maintenance approach regarding the exhaust and emissions systems. At 17 years old, the Astra shows a low mileage profile of 98,708 miles, averaging approximately 5,800 miles per year. There is a notable gap in records between June 2019 and May 2021, during which the vehicle covered only 11 miles. This period of low use likely explains the recurring issues with rubber-based components, such as the perishing of tyres noted in 2019 and 2024, and the persistent deterioration of anti-roll bar linkage dust covers despite the low mechanical mileage. A buyer must pay closely to the structural integrity and suspension assembly, as the record consistently flags corrosion on the front subframe mountings and suspension arms from 2021 through 2024. Although these were described as not seriously weakened, the presence of corrosion on the rear brake pipes and mounting points suggests an environment prone to accelerated rust. The braking system also shows a history of neglect, with thin pads and pitted discs frequently flagged across multiple years. A physical inspection of the front oil leak is essential, as this has been a persistent feature since at least 2021 and remains unresolved in the record.