2010 Vauxhall Combo 1.2L Diesel · DY60 SWJ

The 2010 Vauxhall Combo presents a mixed maintenance trend, with a persistent exhaust issue and emerging mechanical wear overshadowing recent test passes. The most recent MOT in October 2024 at 130,964 miles resulted in a pass, yet the advisory list reveals a worsening steering and suspension condition. A minor rear exhaust leak has appeared consistently since the October 2022 test, indicating a slow deterioration of the silencer rather than a sudden failure. New to the 2024 test, the nearside front track rod end ball joint has slight play, a development from the clean 2023 test, suggesting the steering components are succumbing to age. Combined with recurring rear tyre perishing, the vehicle shows a pattern of deferred minor repairs. Covering roughly 8,185 miles annually, the recorded mileage aligns perfectly with the typical usage profile for a 16-year-old commercial vehicle. The MOT records show steady accumulation, moving from 117,158 miles in October 2022 to 124,523 miles in October 2023, and finally reaching 130,964 miles in October 2024. This consistent upward trajectory rules out prolonged periods of inactivity, confirming the vehicle has been in regular service rather than sitting idle. The slight drop in annual mileage from 7,365 miles to 6,441 miles over the last two years reflects a minor reduction in workload, but the drivetrain and suspension have still endured continuous use. A physical inspection must prioritize the structural and mechanical components flagged across these tests. The persistent minor exhaust leak at the rear silencer will likely require a replacement centre section or repair soon, as corrosion typically accelerates once a weep becomes a leak. The newly flagged nearside front track rod end ball joint play demands immediate scrutiny; if the steering rack boots are split or perished, contamination will rapidly destroy the rack. Buyers should thoroughly inspect the rear tyres for sidewall cracking and uneven wear, as the repeated perishing advisories suggest the vehicle frequently carries loads or sits exposed to the elements. The offside rear binding service brake recorded in the 2023 failure appears to have been rectified, but a test drive must verify the caliper releases freely and the front brake discs show even wear, given the historical offside front tyre inner edge wear indicating potential tracking issues.