2019 Vauxhall Combo 1.5L Diesel · DS69 FME

A pattern of late-stage failures emerges across the MOT history of this 2019 Vauxhall Combo, with three Major defects recorded in the two most recent test cycles. The January 2026 test resulted in a pass with no advisories recorded, suggesting the rear lighting and headlamp issues flagged earlier that day were remedied before re-test. The January 2025 test followed a similar trajectory, passing after an engine oil leak Major was addressed. Earlier test history shows a clean record with the December 2023 pass carrying only two advisories related to rear brake wear, indicating the mechanical trajectory has deteriorated in the latter portion of the recorded history. The fact that every recorded failure has been remedied at source within the same test visit is a positive procedural sign, though the increasing frequency of Major defects in 2025 and 2026 warrants close attention to ongoing maintenance. With 76,067 miles recorded against an age of approximately seven years, the vehicle accumulates around 10,867 miles annually, which sits broadly in line with typical usage for a commercial-derived van of this type. The annual mileage progression between tests appears consistent rather than showing any unusual spikes or long stationary periods that might complicate interpretation. No multi-year lay-up is evident, which means the mechanical components have been subjected to continuous service rather than suffering the drying-out and corrosion risks associated with prolonged off-road periods. The usage profile therefore points to a working vehicle that has been driven regularly, with proportionate wear expected on consumable items. Given the engine oil leak Major recorded in January 2025, a prospective buyer should thoroughly inspect the engine bay for residual staining on the block, sump, and surrounding components, paying particular attention to the rocker cover gasket, timing chain area, and oil filter housing as common sources on this platform. Fresh evidence of cleaning or cosmetic dressing on the engine could obscure active leakage, so it is worth checking the underside of the bonnet for fresh oil mist and the undertray for fresh drips. On a test drive, listen for any ticking from the top of the engine that could indicate oil starvation reaching the valvegear, and monitor the oil level warning light behaviour during cold start. The Major lighting failures from January 2026, involving both the nearside dipped headlamp and the registration plate lamp, are straightforward electrical items but should be verified as functioning correctly across all settings before purchase. The December 2023 advisories flagging nearside rear brake pad wear and nearside rear brake disc pitting should not be overlooked, as brake components at the rear of front-wheel-drive commercial vehicles can sometimes be neglected relative to the front axle. A test drive should include firm pedal applications to check for any judder through the pedal suggesting disc runout, and the handbrake should be tested on an incline to confirm the rear calipers are not binding. Listen for any clonking or knocking from the rear suspension over speed humps, as coil springs and shock absorbers on vehicles of this mileage and age are approaching the threshold where replacement becomes likely. Beyond the recorded items, a thorough inspection of the underside for corrosion around the rear axle, fuel lines, and brake pipes is advisable given the working-van profile, and a check of all interior and exterior lighting including the registration plate illumination should form part of the pre-purchase walkaround.