2020 Vauxhall Combo 1.5L Diesel · DP69 AYJ

The Vauxhall Combo’s most recent MOT tests, conducted in February 2026 at 88,886 miles, reveal a concerning pattern of repeated failures despite no recorded defects on either attempt. This suggests either a test centre error, a minor oversight in the inspection process, or—more critically—a history of unresolved issues that slipped through the net. The lack of advisories or defects across all five tests implies no systematic failures in brakes, suspension, or emissions, but the repeated failures at the same mileage (68,113 and 88,886) warrant scrutiny of whether the vehicle was driven between tests or if the same underlying issues were overlooked. The absence of advisories in prior passes also indicates that any wear—such as suspension bushes, coil springs, or binding calipers—has either been managed adequately or not yet reached a critical stage. The recorded mileage of 88,886 miles over six years equates to approximately 14,814 miles annually, which is unusually high for a vehicle of this age and type. This rate of accumulation suggests either intensive use or prolonged periods of neglect between services, both of which accelerate wear on consumables like tyres, brakes, and drivetrain components. The most notable gap occurs between the March 2025 and February 2026 tests, where the mileage jumped from 68,113 to 88,886—a 20,773-mile increase in just over a year. Such rapid accumulation raises questions about whether the vehicle was driven consistently or stood unused for extended periods, which could have contributed to issues like tyre degradation or corrosion. The consistency of mileage increments, however, suggests no extended periods of stagnation that might have allowed for severe corrosion or structural deterioration. Given the lack of recorded defects or advisories, the primary focus for an in-person inspection should centre on high-wear components that often go unnoticed without a thorough mechanical examination. The repeated failures at the same mileage intervals hint at potential inconsistencies in brake performance, particularly rear calipers or binding mechanisms, which might not have been fully assessed during MOT testing. Suspension integrity—including the condition of bushes, coil springs, and shock absorbers—should be scrutinised, as these are common failure points in high-mileage vans that often receive less attention than passenger cars. Additionally, the rapid mileage accumulation implies that tyres may have been worn unevenly or beyond legal limits, so tread depth and lateral wear patterns must be checked. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and usage, a detailed inspection of the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion, as well as the structural underbody for signs of rust or frame damage, is essential to rule out hidden risks.