2016 Vauxhall Combo 1.2L Diesel · DF66 EXE

The most recent MOT on 21 October 2022 recorded a pass, although the same date also shows a failure entry with no defects listed. Together with a clean pass in October 2021, the absence of any documented faults suggests that the vehicle has not been flagged for any major safety‑critical problems, but the contradictory entries hint at a possible administrative error rather than a mechanical issue. Overall the maintenance trend appears stable, with no recurring defects evident in the official record. At 146,938 miles the 2016 Vauxhall Combo averages roughly 14,700 miles per year, which is well above the typical usage for a light commercial vehicle of this age. Such a mileage level points to sustained on‑road duty and will have accelerated wear on consumables such as tyre tread, brake linings, suspension bushings and engine oil. There are no obvious mileage gaps that would indicate long periods of inactivity, so the wear is likely to be relatively uniform across the drivetrain and chassis. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front and rear suspension components – check the condition of the rubber bushes, ball joints and coil springs for any signs of cracking, splatter or excessive play, and listen for clunking or creaking noises when the vehicle is driven over bumps or during hard cornering. The braking system warrants a thorough inspection; examine the pads for remaining thickness, the discs for scoring or rust, and the calipers for any signs of sticking or uneven wear, as high mileage can lead to glazed pads or corroded pistons that may cause shudder under braking. Likewise, verify that the gearbox oil has been changed at the recommended interval and look for any leaks around the transmission, differential and engine oil seals, while a test drive should reveal any abnormal vibrations, gear‑shift harshness or loss of power that could indicate wear in the clutch or drivetrain. Given the vehicle’s ten‑year age, time‑related deterioration must also be assessed. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or perishing, especially if the tyres have been stored for extended periods, and confirm that the tread depth remains within legal limits. Check the 12‑volt battery for charge holding capacity and inspect the terminals for corrosion, as batteries tend to lose effectiveness after several years of service. Examine the coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid for signs of contamination or low levels, and consider a full fluid replacement if service records are missing. Finally, a visual survey of the under‑body for rust, especially around wheel arches, sills and suspension mounting points, and a review of the service book for evidence of regular oil changes, timing belt/chain checks and any major component replacements will give a clearer picture of the van’s overall health before committing to purchase.