VAUXHALL ZAFIRA (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 28,728 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
76%
Total Tests (2024)
28,728
Avg Mileage
96,866 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,827
Is the 2012 VAUXHALL ZAFIRA reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 6 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the VAUXHALL brand average of 84%.
At 12 years old, 76% of VAUXHALL ZAFIRAs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 28,728 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 96,866 miles.
How does the 2012 VAUXHALL ZAFIRA compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 VAUXHALL ZAFIRA has 96,866 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a VAUXHALL ZAFIRA?
The most reliable year is the 2018 model with a 86% MOT pass rate, while the 1999 model has the lowest at 65%. The 2012 sits between the two at 76%.
How much does a 2012 VAUXHALL ZAFIRA 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 ZAFIRA by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 86% | 7,948 | 48,589 mi |
| 2017 | 84% | 19,182 | 57,186 mi |
| 2016 | 83% | 19,435 | 69,725 mi |
| 2015 | 81% | 24,364 | 79,658 mi |
| 2014 | 79% | 47,163 | 87,407 mi |
| 2013 | 78% | 47,851 | 91,885 mi |
| 2012 | 76% | 28,728 | 96,866 mi |
| 2011 | 73% | 23,998 | 106,807 mi |
| 2010 | 72% | 32,021 | 108,515 mi |
| 2009 | 70% | 18,589 | 107,690 mi |
| 2008 | 69% | 27,404 | 113,639 mi |
| 2007 | 68% | 22,972 | 114,567 mi |
| 2006 | 69% | 15,366 | 117,052 mi |
| 2005 | 69% | 10,501 | 117,280 mi |
| 2004 | 70% | 8,351 | 117,412 mi |
| 2003 | 69% | 4,657 | 117,922 mi |
| 2002 | 71% | 2,799 | 121,379 mi |
| 2001 | 71% | 1,295 | 121,885 mi |
| 2000 | 66% | 452 | 133,027 mi |
| 1999 | 65% | 219 | 123,366 mi |
Checking a specific VAUXHALL ZAFIRA?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 VAUXHALL ZAFIRA
The 2012 VAUXHALL ZAFIRA is a small family car with a 1598cc petrol engine. 28,728 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it one of the most commonly tested cars on UK roads. Among all cars from 2012, the average MOT pass rate is 78%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 96,866 miles at 12 years old, VAUXHALL ZAFIRA owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2012 VAUXHALL ZAFIRA Fuel Costs
The 1598cc 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 ZAFIRA?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,827 (£152/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 76% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
VAUXHALL ZAFIRA Reliability Trend
Newer VAUXHALL ZAFIRAs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 10 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 VAUXHALL ZAFIRA
At 12 years old, the VAUXHALL ZAFIRA 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 2018 model has the highest pass rate at 86%. With 28,728 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2012 VAUXHALL ZAFIRA
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2014) 76% pass rate (same) from 141,747 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2013) 78% pass rate (+2%) from 132,292 tests
- NISSAN QASHQAI (2013) 72% pass rate (-4%) from 84,989 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2011) 75% pass rate (-1%) from 79,721 tests