2016 Volkswagen Crafter 2.0L Diesel · AX59 ARK

The Volkswagen Crafter’s most recent MOT tests in April 2026 reveal a concerning pattern: the vehicle failed twice in succession at the same mileage (140,176) despite no recorded defects being listed. This anomaly suggests either an administrative error in the test process or a critical fault that evaded detection during the initial pass. The preceding clean pass in March 2024 at 118,971 miles indicates the vehicle was roadworthy then, but the lack of intermediate testing—particularly after the 2025 failure—creates uncertainty about whether underlying issues were addressed or simply overlooked. Buyers should treat this as a red flag, as repeated failures without explanation often point to either a poorly maintained vehicle or a tester’s failure to identify serious faults. The recorded mileage of 140,176 miles over ten years equates to an average of 14,018 miles annually, which is unusually high for a commercial van of this age. The gap between tests is also irregular: the 2024 pass to the 2025 failure spans roughly 19,000 miles, while the 2025 failure to the 2026 retest covers another 10,188 miles. This rapid accumulation suggests either heavy usage or prolonged periods of neglect between services. The absence of any advisories or partial passes in the record implies that even minor wear—such as suspension bushes, coil springs, or brake caliper binding—was not formally addressed, which could accelerate structural deterioration. Given the lack of defects recorded but the repeated failures, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear axle and bushings, as these are common failure points in high-mileage vans. The brakes, including disc thickness and caliper operation, warrant close scrutiny, as repeated test failures often correlate with undetected brake wear or binding. Structural integrity, especially around the wheel arches and sills, should be examined for corrosion, as this is a frequent cause of MOT failures in older vehicles. The engine bay and drivetrain components should also be checked for leaks, unusual wear, or signs of forced maintenance, as these are rarely flagged in MOTs but can indicate deeper issues. The absence of service history or advisories further justifies a thorough mechanical assessment.