2009 Chevrolet Cruze 1.6L Petrol · YT59 OCK

The vehicle shows a history of reactive maintenance, where faults are only addressed immediately following an MOT failure. While the most recent test in November 2025 at 160,687 miles passed with no defects, this followed a significant failure just one month prior. In that October 2025 test, the tester flagged multiple critical safety and roadworthiness issues, including a serious fluid leak from the nearside front shock absorber, a structurally failed nearside rear tyre, and mismatched tyres on the axle. The presence of different aspect ratio tyres on the same axle suggests a lack of professional oversight or budget-conscious maintenance choices. At 17 years old with 160,687 miles, the car has averaged approximately 9,452 miles per year, which is consistent with typical UK usage for this age. However, the record reveals recurring issues with suspension and braking components. Between 2021 and 2023, the vehicle consistently failed on items. For instance, in September 2023 at 137,912 miles, the car failed for a fractured coil spring, an exhaust lambda reading, and inadequate parking brake efficiency. The repeated mention of deteriorated ball joint dust covers and CVJ boots across several years indicates that rubber-based suspension components are neglected until they reach a point of failure or severe wear. The braking system is a particular area of concern. Records from 2021, 2023, and 2024 all highlight issues with brake efficiency, imbalanced braking across axles, or worn pads and discs. The September 2024 failure at 158,851 miles noted the parking brake was below requirements and the rear brakes were imbalanced. A prospective buyer should verify the current state of the brake discs for pitting and test the parking brake mechanism, as the history suggests the system operates near the limit of legality. While the car currently holds an MOT, the pattern of mechanical failures suggests that thorough upkeep is reactive rather than preventative.