2010 Volkswagen Crafter 2.5L Diesel · AF60 WSJ

The most recent MOT test on 1 May 2026 resulted in a pass, though five advisory items were recorded, suggesting a maintenance trend that is stable but showing mild deterioration. The previous tests in 2025 and early 2024 passed with no defects, but the early 2024 test initially failed on stop lamp function, headlamp aim, and parking brake efficiency before being rectified at the same test date. The accumulation of advisories at the most recent test, particularly relating to fluid leaks, brake pedal condition, and tyre perishing, indicates that while the vehicle remains legally compliant, its consumable and underbody components are showing age-related decline. The fact that the parking brake fell below requirements in 2024 and the brake pedal is now noted as wearing smooth suggests the braking system requires close scrutiny before purchase. With 156,190 recorded miles over approximately 16 years, this Crafter has averaged around 9,762 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a working commercial vehicle of this type, though many Crafter vans of this era accumulated significantly higher annual mileages in fleet or trade use. There are no substantial gaps in the MOT history that would suggest prolonged standing, and the relatively continuous annual testing indicates regular use. Given the high absolute odometer reading, mechanical wear on the engine, clutch, turbocharger, dual-mass flywheel if fitted, suspension components, and drivetrain should be assumed to be substantial, even though the MOT records do not directly evidence these internal wear items. The oil leak advisories from the most recent MOT are particularly worth investigating. There is a general engine oil leak noted as not excessive, and a separate rear differential oil leak also noted as not excessive. While neither was a failure item, oil leaks from a high-mileage diesel engine and rear differential tend to worsen over time, and a prospective buyer should inspect the underside of the engine and the rear axle area for fresh oil residue or staining on the chassis. On a test drive, listen for any change in engine note that could indicate low oil pressure, and check the oil level on the dipstick cold and warm to establish whether consumption is within reasonable limits. The differential leak suggests a pinion seal or cover gasket failure, which is relatively straightforward to remedy but should be factored into negotiation. The brake-related advisories are also significant. A smooth brake pedal can indicate worn pedal rubber reducing grip and pedal feel, and more importantly can point to glazing or wear at the brake servo or master cylinder interface. The corroded brake pipe covered in grease or other material should be physically inspected, as grease on a brake pipe can mask active corrosion and the pipe may require cleaning and assessment or replacement. Test drive symptoms to monitor include brake pedal sponginess, excessive travel, pulling to one side under braking, or brake shudder which would suggest warped discs. The tyre perishing advisory across all tyres is a particular concern on a 2010 vehicle, as rubber degrades with age regardless of tread depth. All four tyres should be closely examined for sidewall cracking, and replacement is strongly advised even if tread remains legal. The body corrosion advisories at the rear of the cab, including the seat belt anchorage area, warrant careful inspection as commercial vehicles of this age frequently suffer structural corrosion in load areas. The nearside lower mirror damage noted in 2024 should be verified as repaired, and the headlamp aim issue from the previous failure confirms that the headlamp adjustment mechanism should be checked for proper operation. Finally, despite the lack of advisories on fluids, given the calendar age of 16 years and high mileage, a full service including brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid replacement should be assumed necessary to ensure reliable ongoing operation.