2007 Vauxhall Combo 1.2L Diesel · DV57 CFF

The most recent DVSA examination on 21 May 2026 resulted in a Pass, with the only items recorded being two advisories for light oil misting on both the nearside and offside front shock absorbers. These advisories have been carried forward identically from the previous pass on 4 June 2025, indicating that the oil seepage is not progressing rapidly but is a persistent condition warranting monitoring. Looking back over the available history, the vehicle has demonstrated a broadly stable maintenance profile with a clear Pass at the 2021 test where no defects were recorded, followed by a pattern of tyre-related advisories, a Dangerous tyre failure in 2023, and a fractured rear coil spring Major failure in 2024 which was rectified to enable the subsequent pass. Overall, the trend is one of ongoing consumable wear rather than systemic neglect, although the repeat shock absorber advisories suggest that further attention to the front suspension will likely be required within the next inspection cycle. With a recorded mileage of 141,228 miles over approximately 19 years, the vehicle averages around 7,433 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a light commercial vehicle of this age and consistent with its intended use as a Vauxhall Combo. There are no glaring anomalies or rapid mileage accumulations evident from the test records, and the gaps between tests appear to reflect the standard annual MOT cadence rather than extended periods off the road. While the mileage is unremarkable, it is important to recognise that a vehicle of this age and distance will inevitably have accrued wear across major mechanical assemblies including the clutch, dual-mass flywheel if applicable, gearbox synchros, and engine ancillaries such as the timing chain, water pump, and turbocharger if fitted, all of which merit close inspection regardless of the test outcome. Given the recurring advisories for front shock absorber oil misting, a prospective buyer should thoroughly inspect the front suspension for any progression beyond light misting, looking for damp oil residue coating the damper bodies, pooling at the top mounts, or wetness visible on the front underbody after the vehicle has been parked. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises over speed humps, broken tarmac, and during sharp direction changes, and pay attention to any excessive nose-dive under braking or rear-end squat on acceleration, all of which would indicate worn dampers. Equally, the 2024 Major failure for a fractured rear coil spring highlights the age-related brittleness of suspension springs on high-mileage vehicles, so it is advisable to inspect for any sagging at the rear, uneven ride height, or audible rattles over uneven surfaces, and to confirm that the replacement spring was of correct specification and correctly seated. Beyond the specific advisories, the age and mileage profile of this Combo demands attention to several time-based deterioration factors that an MOT cannot fully assess. Inspect all four tyres closely for sidewall cracking and perishing caused by UV exposure and age rather than solely by tread wear, as rubber compounds degrade over time even on lightly used vehicles. Examine the brake discs for severe corrosion, scoring, or lipping which would suggest the calipers may have been binding, and check that the front discs run cool after a short drive rather than remaining hot to the touch. Verify the date code on the 12V battery, as a unit older than five years is increasingly likely to fail without warning, particularly under winter starting loads. Finally, confirm evidence of regular servicing through stamps in the service book or digital records, paying particular attention to timing belt replacement intervals, coolant and brake fluid renewal which degrade on a calendar basis, and any history of clutch or gearbox repairs that would provide reassurance given the substantial recorded mileage.