2009 Vauxhall Combo 1.2L Diesel · DF09 UEW

The Vauxhall Combo’s most recent MOT, passed on 28 August 2025 at 69,928 miles , confirms it remains roadworthy but with persistent, low-severity issues that suggest deferred maintenance rather than urgent failure. The trend over the past five tests is stable in terms of passing , though the same faults—tyre wear and anti-roll bar ball joint play—recur annually. The 2025 test introduced no new major defects, but the slight play in both front anti-roll bar linkages (a common wear item) implies these may need replacement soon, while the offside front tyre’s edge wear indicates uneven loading or alignment drift. No structural or safety-critical failures have been logged, but the 2024 and 2023 tests reveal a pattern of tyre tread approaching the legal minimum , which, if unaddressed, could lead to a fail in the next cycle. The vehicle’s 69,928 miles over 17 years equates to an average of 4,113 miles annually , a figure unusually low for its age and class, suggesting either light commercial use or prolonged periods of inactivity. The mileage increments between tests— 5,442 miles between 2021 and 2022 , 2,984 miles between 2022 and 2023 , and 3,857 miles between 2023 and 2024 —show no rapid accumulation, but the gap between 2021 (53,335 miles) and 2022 (58,055 miles) is the largest, raising questions about why the vehicle wasn’t tested sooner. The 2021 test’s clean pass contrasts sharply with the subsequent tyre-related advisories, hinting at either a change in maintenance routine or the vehicle being driven less rigorously post-2021. A buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the front suspension , particularly the anti-roll bar linkages and bushings , given their repeated advisories. The tyre condition warrants immediate scrutiny—all four should be checked for uneven wear patterns , tread depth uniformity , and edge damage , with the front tyres likely due for replacement soon. The 2022 test’s note about under-trays and engine covers obstructing inspection is concerning; these should be removed to verify subframe corrosion and brake caliper binding , as restricted access could mask critical issues. Finally, the rear brakes were not flagged in recent tests, but their condition should be confirmed, as binding calipers or worn discs could develop without warning. The absence of exhaust emissions failures suggests the engine remains compliant, but a comprehensive fluid check (brakes, power steering, coolant) is advisable given the vehicle’s age.