2007 Vauxhall Movano 2.5L Diesel · CV07 DFJ

The most recent MOT test on 22 June 2026 resulted in a pass, but the inspection history suggests a vehicle that is accumulating minor defects at a steady, age-appropriate rate rather than one in serious decline. The previous attempt just six days earlier failed on three major items, all of which were rectified before the retest: incorrect colour front direction indicators, a missing steering rack gaiter on the nearside, and the continued presence of the deteriorated inner CV joint boot. That the failure was relatively narrow and quickly corrected, with the subsequent pass still carrying only minor and advisory items, indicates the vehicle remains fundamentally serviceable but is being maintained reactively. Across the 2022, 2024, 2025 and 2026 tests, recurring advisories relating to steering play, suspension ball joints, leaf spring bushes, and front brake disc wear form a clear pattern of progressive wear on the steering and front suspension assemblies, typical of a high-mileage commercial vehicle. With 136,618 miles recorded over approximately 19 years, this Movano has averaged around 7,190 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a van of its type, particularly one likely used in light commercial service. The mileage progression between tests is reasonably consistent and there are no obvious anomalies, long standing periods, or sudden accumulations that would suggest clocking or neglect through disuse. The recorded annual rate does, however, mean that consumable wear components such as brake pads, discs, CV joints, steering gaiters, and suspension bushes will have endured considerable cumulative use. Given the age of the platform, attention should also be paid to time-based degradation items including the 12V battery, coolant, brake fluid, and timing belt or cambelt service intervals, which are not visible in MOT data but become increasingly critical beyond the 15 year mark. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the steering system given the repeated advisories. The 2026 test noted slight free play at the steering wheel and play in the steering rack inner joint, while an earlier failure highlighted a missing nearside steering rack gaiter, which allows water and grit to enter the rack and accelerate internal wear. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking from the front end over bumps, particularly when turning at low speed, and feel for vagueness or slackness in the steering response. Inspect the condition of any replacement gaiter for splits or perished edges, and check the power steering ram area for fresh seepage, as the June 2026 advisory noted existing seepage from a joint that may progress into a more serious fluid leak. The offside front upper and lower suspension arm ball joints were flagged as excessively worn in 2022 and the offside lower ball joint was again noted with slight play in the same year, so a thorough inspection of all front suspension links, bushes, and the anti-roll bar drop links is essential, with attention paid to uneven tyre wear across the front axle which would suggest compromised geometry. The CV joint boots on both front inner drive shafts were recorded as severely deteriorated in June 2026, and although classed as minor at that time, they are a known precursor to joint failure once grease escapes and moisture enters. On a test drive, listen for clicking or knocking from the front wheels during full-lock turns, indicating advanced joint wear, and inspect the boots themselves for fresh splits, perished rubber, or any evidence of recent over-spray indicating a hasty repair. The front brake discs were advised as worn in the latest test, so measure remaining disc thickness with a gauge if possible and check for lipping or scoring on the disc surface. Given the age and mileage, also confirm the condition of the leaf spring shackle pins and bushes which were previously flagged, the operation and colour of all direction indicators, the function of the supplementary restraint system warning lamp which caused a failure in 2024, and the general condition of the rear position lamps and reflectors. Finally, verify the timing belt or chain service history, check for any signs of timing cover oil seepage from the ageing engine, and ensure the van has been regularly serviced regardless of MOT outcome, as MOT testing alone does not cover internal engine condition.