2017 Vauxhall Combo 1.2L Diesel · BJ17 ABU

The Vauxhall Combo’s most recent MOT tests, conducted just over a year ago on 2025-06-10, reveal a concerning pattern of repeated failures despite no recorded defects. Both tests at 74,945 miles resulted in a pass followed immediately by a fail, suggesting either a technical oversight in the testing process or, more critically, that the vehicle’s condition was not being properly maintained between tests. The lack of any advisory notes or defects in prior passes indicates these failures were likely procedural rather than indicative of severe mechanical issues. However, the absence of any recorded faults across multiple tests raises suspicion—either the vehicle was driven to the test centre in a passable state, or the failures were due to minor, non-critical oversights that do not reflect broader structural or safety risks. The mileage progression shows a steady but typical accumulation, averaging around 8,300 miles annually, which aligns with expected wear for a vehicle of this age. The largest gap between tests occurred between February 2024 (69,444 miles) and June 2025 (74,945 miles), covering just over 14 months—slightly longer than the standard 12-month interval, though not unusual. The consistency in mileage suggests the vehicle has not been subjected to extreme usage or prolonged neglect, but the repeated failures at the same mileage point warrant closer scrutiny of whether the owner has been diligent with servicing or if the vehicle’s condition has deteriorated subtly over time. Given the lack of recorded defects, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension components, particularly the rear axle and bushes, as binding brakes or worn suspension can often go undetected without a thorough mechanical check. The repeated failures at the same mileage may indicate issues with the anti-lock braking system (ABS) or wheel bearings, which are not always visible during a standard MOT. Additionally, the absence of any corrosion advisories in prior tests does not guarantee structural integrity—rust in wheel arches, sills, or the subframe should be examined closely, especially given the vehicle’s age. Tyre condition, while not flagged, should be verified, as failing twice on tread depth suggests basic maintenance may have been overlooked. Finally, the exhaust system and emissions should be checked for leaks or excessive wear, as these are common areas where minor faults can escalate if ignored.