1995 Vauxhall Corsa: common problems and MOT failures

What goes wrong more than usual on a 1995 Vauxhall Corsa?

Parts flagged at MOT more often on the 1995 Vauxhall Corsa than on all cars registered in 1995.

• Rust around suspension or steering mountings1.9× usual
  Vauxhall Corsa

  14.4% All 1995 cars

  7.4%

  Failed outright at MOT: 7.5%, against 4.1% of all 1995 cars. The rest were advisories or minor defects.

  Rough price £100–£450 our estimate

  At the viewing: On a straight road the steering wheel should sit straight. Listen for knocks when turning, and check the steering feels even.

Common 1995 Vauxhall Corsa MOT failures and advisories

The share of 1995 Vauxhall Corsa MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.

• Suspension
  32% of testsRough price £120–£400

  At the viewing: Listen for knocks over speed bumps, and look behind each front wheel for a snapped coil spring.

• Lights and electrics
  26% of testsRough price £10–£80

  At the viewing: Ask a friend to check every light, including brake lights and indicators, while you operate them.

• Brakes
  25% of testsRough price £150–£350

  At the viewing: Look for a lip on the disc edges and feel for judder or pulling when braking firmly from about 40mph.

• Oil and fluid leaks
  22% of testsRough price £80–£600

  At the viewing: Look under the engine and on the ground where the car is usually parked for fresh oil or fluid.

• Rust and bodywork
  19% of testsRough price £150–£1,000

  At the viewing: Check the sills, wheel arches and underneath for rust, and look along the panels for uneven gaps or paint.

• Exhaust and emissions
  17% of testsRough price £100–£1,200

  At the viewing: Look for black soot in the tailpipe, listen for blowing from the exhaust and check for engine or DPF warning lights.

Questions to ask the seller before buying a 1995 Vauxhall Corsa

Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.

1. Any recent work on the rust around suspension or steering mountings? (Flagged at MOT 1.9× as often on the 1995 Vauxhall Corsa as on other cars the same age.)
2. Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?