2021 Vauxhall Combo 2300 Sportive TD 1.5L Diesel · DT70 HSV

This Vauxhall Combo’s most recent MOT tests—conducted just six months ago on 2026-01-12—show an unusual dual outcome: one pass and one failure at the same mileage (16,178) with no recorded defects. While the lack of defects in either test suggests no immediate catastrophic failures, the simultaneous pass and fail raises suspicion of administrative error or a deliberate attempt to bypass inspection. The preceding tests in January 2025 (13,168 miles) and January 2024 (10,393 miles) were both clean, indicating a stable pattern of passing without advisories—though the abrupt duplication at the latest test warrants further scrutiny. The vehicle’s mileage of 16,178 over five years (as of 2026-07-27) averages around 3,236 miles annually, which is unusually low for a diesel-powered van of this age. The gaps between tests—approximately 13,000 miles each—align with MOT intervals but contrast sharply with typical usage patterns for commercial or frequent-use vehicles. The consistent mileage increments (13,168 to 16,178 over a year) suggest the vehicle has not been driven sporadically or left stationary for extended periods, which could imply either light commercial use, storage in a controlled environment, or deliberate mileage manipulation. However, the lack of advisories or defects in prior tests does not confirm the vehicle’s true service history. Given the clean MOT history, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of high-wear components that often fail silently or exhibit gradual degradation. Focus on the suspension system—particularly the rear coil springs, bushes, and dampers—for signs of uneven wear or corrosion, as diesel vans are prone to rust in wheel arches and subframes. The brakes, despite no recorded failures, should be checked for uneven pad thickness, glazed rotors, or binding calipers, especially if the vehicle has been stored with minimal use. Examine the exhaust system for leaks or excessive corrosion, particularly around the catalytic converter and downstream pipes, as diesel emissions systems can degrade over time even with low mileage. Finally, inspect the battery and charging system, as prolonged periods of inactivity can lead to sulfation or parasitic drain, and verify the integrity of the electrical connections for potential corrosion. The absence of advisories in prior tests does not preclude these areas from requiring attention.