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

The Vauxhall Combo’s MOT history presents a concerning pattern of repeated failures without recorded defects, culminating in two back-to-back tests in July 2025—one passed at 45,739 miles and one failed just three days earlier at 45,707 miles. This inconsistency, combined with the absence of any documented faults across five tests spanning 18 months, strongly suggests either deliberate test manipulation or a vehicle that has been kept in a condition just outside MOT thresholds. The most recent pass in July 2025, though clean, offers no reassurance given the immediate prior failure and the lack of transparency in what may have been rectified. Such a record raises serious questions about the vehicle’s true condition, particularly if critical components—such as brake binding, suspension wear, or emissions compliance—were temporarily adjusted or overlooked. The mileage accumulation of roughly 9,148 miles per year aligns with average usage for a vehicle of this age, though the clustering of tests in early 2024 and mid-2025 is unusual. The gap between the February 2024 tests (both at 34,021 miles) indicates either a delay in retesting after a failure or a period of minimal use, followed by a resumption of driving. The absence of mileage progression between the two February 2024 entries further implies the vehicle may have sat unused for some time post-failure, potentially exacerbating issues like seized brakes or degraded fluids. By December 2024, mileage had risen to 43,808 miles, suggesting a return to regular use, yet the rapid progression to 45,739 miles by July 2025—just 931 miles in seven months—hints at either light usage or an inaccurate odometer. Given the lack of recorded defects, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of components typically targeted in MOT tests but not explicitly mentioned in these records. Pay close attention to brake systems, including caliper binding, pad wear, and disc condition, as these are common areas for manipulation or deferred maintenance. Suspension components—such as coil springs, bushes, and ball joints—should be checked for wear or corrosion, particularly if the vehicle has been driven on uneven roads. Structural integrity is also critical; inspect for signs of rust or corrosion in wheel arches, sills, and underbody panels, as these can compromise safety. Finally, verify the exhaust emissions system, as tampering or poor maintenance often leads to test failures without clear documentation. The absence of any advisories or defects in the MOT history, despite repeated failures, is a red flag that warrants immediate scrutiny. Without visible evidence of repairs or a clear explanation for the failures, the vehicle’s true condition remains uncertain. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is strongly advised to confirm its roadworthiness beyond the MOT test results.