2015 Vauxhall Corsa 1.0L Petrol · YR65 TZU

The 999cc petrol unit is among the more economical small-car engines, typically returning mid-50s mpg in mixed driving according to manufacturer figures. Road tax for a Euro 6 petrol of this age is relatively low — £190 annually from April 2025 onwards under the current VED system. Insurance is likely to fall into group 3-6 depending on exact trim, keeping premiums modest for a supermini.

Routine servicing costs are generally affordable, with parts widely available and inexpensive thanks to the Corsa's high UK market share. Budget for replacement items such as tyres, brake pads and a clutch over the coming years given the mileage already covered. Estimated annual running cost: £900-£1,200.

Begin with a physical inspection of the bodywork for the usual age-related issues — stone chips to the bonnet, wheel arch corrosion (a known Corsa weak point on earlier generations), and any previous accident repair evidence along the sills. Under the bonnet, check the coolant level and condition, as the 1.0 petrol can suffer water pump failures; listen for any timing chain rattle on a cold start. Inspect the tyres for even wear, which can indicate alignment or suspension issues, and check the brake discs for lipping given the mileage.

Inside the car, confirm that all warning lights extinguish promptly after ignition, that the infotainment and heating controls all function, and that there are no water ingress signs on the carpets or under the spare wheel well. Because the MOT record shows a failure in May 2023 alongside a pass on the same date at the same mileage, request the VT30/VT20 certificate paperwork so you can see the exact reason for the failure and confirm the vehicle was not placed under a prohibition. Finally, a handheld OBD scan is worthwhile even on a relatively simple Corsa, as it can reveal stored fault codes from intermittent sensor issues that may not trigger an MOT failure but could become expensive later.