VAUXHALL ADAM (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 82 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
82%
Total Tests (2024)
82
Avg Mileage
69,741 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,572
Is the 2012 VAUXHALL ADAM reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 12 years old, 82% of VAUXHALL ADAMs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 82 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 69,741 miles.
How does the 2012 VAUXHALL ADAM compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 VAUXHALL ADAM has 69,741 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a VAUXHALL ADAM?
The most reliable year is the 2019 model with a 89% MOT pass rate, while the 2013 model has the lowest at 78%. The 2012 sits between the two at 82%.
How much does a 2012 VAUXHALL ADAM cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
VAUXHALL ADAM by Year
Checking a specific VAUXHALL ADAM?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 VAUXHALL ADAM
The 2012 VAUXHALL ADAM is a small family car with a 1398cc petrol engine. 82 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2012, the average MOT pass rate is 78%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 69,741 miles at 12 years old, VAUXHALL ADAM owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2012 VAUXHALL ADAM Fuel Costs
The 1398cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 42 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,137 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2012 VAUXHALL ADAM?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,572 (£131/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £30 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 82% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
VAUXHALL ADAM Reliability Trend
Newer VAUXHALL ADAMs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 5 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 VAUXHALL ADAM
At 12 years old, the VAUXHALL ADAM is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2019 model has the highest pass rate at 89%. Note: with only 82 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2012 VAUXHALL ADAM
The VAUXHALL ADAM is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol small family cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2014) 79% pass rate (-3%) from 224,536 tests
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2014) 76% pass rate (-6%) from 141,747 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2013) 78% pass rate (-4%) from 132,292 tests
- NISSAN QASHQAI (2013) 72% pass rate (-10%) from 84,989 tests