2011 Volkswagen Crafter 2.5L Diesel · AS08 URN

The most recent MOT on 25 September 2024 was passed with no recorded defects, and the preceding test in August 2023 also cleared without comment. Earlier in the series, particularly the 2022 and 2021 examinations, a number of advisories and two failures were logged, but the nature of those items – mainly wear on anti‑roll‑bar bushes, slight play in the prop‑shaft bearing and brake‑pipe corrosion – has largely been resolved in the last two years. The pattern therefore shows a clear improvement, with the vehicle now presenting a clean record and the earlier concerns appearing to have been addressed or at least stabilised. At 128 157 miles the van has logged roughly 8 500 miles per annum over its fifteen‑year life, which sits comfortably within the typical usage envelope for a light commercial vehicle of this age. There are no obvious periods of excessive mileage accumulation that would suggest severe over‑use, nor are there long gaps that would point to prolonged storage; the mileage progression is consistent with regular, moderate duty. Consequently the wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension components should be proportionate to the mileage rather than being accelerated by high‑stress operation. When you inspect the vehicle, give particular attention to the rear anti‑roll‑bar bushings on both sides and the front track‑rod end ball joint, as these items have been flagged repeatedly. On a test drive listen for any clunking or knocking when traversing speed‑bumps or cornering, and feel for any looseness in the steering feel that could indicate lingering play. The slight play noted in the rear prop‑shaft bearing should be checked for any whining or vibration under acceleration, and the parking‑brake lever should be tested for firm holding power to confirm that the earlier efficiency fault has been remedied. Examine the brake discs for surface scoring or uneven wear, especially on the rear unit that was previously noted as pitted, and verify that the brake pipes are free of corrosion and not coated in grease, as past advisories suggested. Finally, confirm that the oil leak advisory from 2022 has been rectified by inspecting the engine bay for fresh oil stains around valve covers, gaskets and the oil filter housing. Given the vehicle’s age, also carry out age‑related checks irrespective of the MOT record. Inspect all four tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot or loss of tread depth, and note the DOT code to ensure they are not beyond six years old. Examine the battery terminals for corrosion and have the charge held under load, as a 15‑year‑old unit may be nearing the end of its service life. Look for rust or corrosion on the chassis, under‑tray and suspension components, especially where water may have pooled during standing periods. Verify that coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been changed in accordance with the service schedule, as fluids degrade over time even without high mileage. A thorough visual and functional appraisal of these items will give you confidence that the van’s mechanical condition matches the improving MOT trend and is suitable for continued commercial use.