2015 Vauxhall Corsa 1.2L Petrol · YY65 CYL

The 1.2-litre petrol engine is a known economy performer, with real-world fuel consumption typically in the 45–50 mpg range for mixed driving, translating to roughly £15–£18 per 100 miles at current pump prices. Road tax sits in a low band for this engine size (likely £30–£165 annually depending on exact COV), and insurance for a 1.2 Corsa generally falls into group 3–6, meaning premiums of £350–£600 per year for an average UK buyer.

Routine maintenance is generally affordable on this model: a cambelt change interval for the 1.2 engine is typically every 5 years or 60,000 miles, so this 47,682-mile example may be approaching or due for that work, costing £250–£400 at an independent garage. Brake pads and discs, given the recent advisory, are likely to need attention within the next 10,000 miles at a cost of £180–£280 for a full axle refurbishment.

The MOT history flags three areas requiring close inspection: the offside rear service brake which was found to be excessively binding, and both track rod end ball joint dust covers which showed deterioration. On inspection, the rear brake should be spun by hand to confirm free movement — a seized caliper slide or stuck piston will be apparent as resistance. The track rod ends should be checked for play by rocking the wheel at 9 and 3 o'clock; any clonking or free movement indicates the joints themselves need replacement, not just the gaiters.

General inspection points specific to this 2015 Corsa include the headlamp units (a top failure reason across the model range), coil springs (another common Corsa failure, particularly on the front), and the exhaust downpipe and rear silencer for corrosion — these are all items worth visual examination on the ramp. Tyre condition should be assessed across all four corners, paying attention to the sidewalls for cracking given the pattern of advisories; budget for a full set if any show perishing.

Finally, check the coolant and oil levels, look for oil leaks around the rocker cover gasket (a known 1.2 petrol weak point), and verify the operation of all warning lights on the dashboard including the DPF/management lights, even though this is a petrol model.