2017 Volkswagen Crafter 2.0L Diesel · C25 ATV

The most recent MOT test on 2026-05-07 resulted in a passing outcome, though it included a persistent advisory regarding front brake discs that are worn, pitted, or scored but not yet to a critical level of structural compromise. This follows a previous failure in 2026-05-05, where a major defect was identified with the offside front coil spring fractured, necessitating immediate repair. The intervening MOTs from 2025 and 2024 all passed without major issues, suggesting a period of relative stability in maintenance, though the recurring brake disc advisory and the spring failure highlight underlying wear patterns that require vigilance. The absence of further failures since the spring defect suggests either timely corrective action or that the vehicle has been driven cautiously to mitigate further spring degradation, but the advisory persists, indicating ongoing monitoring is essential. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 63,073 miles at the time of this assessment represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 7,008 miles per year, which aligns closely with typical long-term driving patterns for a nine-year-old model. This level of mileage is not excessively high for its age, though it does imply moderate to heavy usage over the years, particularly given the absence of significant mileage gaps that might suggest prolonged idling or infrequent operation. Heavy usage accelerates wear on critical components such as suspension elements, brake systems, and drivetrain consumables, which is reflected in the documented defects. The coil spring failure in 2026-05-05 underscores the importance of addressing wear in suspension bushes, coil springs, and mounting points, as these components degrade faster under sustained stress. For a prospective buyer, the most critical inspection should focus on the front brake system, given the recurring advisory of worn, pitted, or scored discs. On a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, excessive vibration or shudder during braking, or signs of brake fluid contamination—all of which may indicate impending disc or pad failure. Visually inspect the front discs for deep grooves, warping, or signs of glazing, and check for brake dust accumulation that could signal uneven wear. The coil spring failure from the previous MOT highlights the need to examine the front suspension for signs of further spring failure, such as sagging, excessive noise from the suspension (e.g., clunks or rattles), or uneven ride height. Inspect the coil springs themselves for cracks or bulges, and verify that the shock absorbers are functioning correctly by performing a bounce test—if the vehicle oscillates excessively or settles slowly, the absorbers may be worn. Additionally, check the vehicle’s structural integrity for signs of rust or corrosion, particularly in areas prone to moisture exposure, such as wheel arches, undercarriage, and wheel wells. Given the vehicle’s age and usage, inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur from prolonged exposure to UV light and temperature fluctuations. Test the 12V battery’s health by attempting to start the engine and checking for slow cranking or electrical system warnings. Verify that all fluid levels—brake fluid, coolant, engine oil, and transmission fluid—are within specification, as fluid degradation can accelerate wear over time. Lastly, ensure that the service history is up to date, particularly for fluid changes and component replacements, as the last MOT advisory suggests ongoing attention to brake system maintenance is advisable. If the vehicle has been driven at a lower annual mileage in the past, the buyer should also check for signs of standing corrosion, such as rust on brake discs, calipers, or suspension components, which can develop when the vehicle is not in use for extended periods.