2004 Vauxhall Combo 1.2L Diesel · EA54 TPZ

The 1.3-litre CDTi diesel engine used in this generation of Combo is generally frugal, typically returning around 45-50 mpg under normal use, though a 22-year-old example may fall short of that. Road tax for a diesel van of this age falls into the lowest band, typically £165-£190 per year for vans, though commercial vehicle rules differ from cars and any private use may attract different treatment. Insurance should be relatively modest, likely in group 3-4 range for the basic model, with annual premiums in the £350-£500 region for an experienced driver.

Maintenance costs will be the dominant expense. Budget realistically for ongoing consumables — tyres, brakes, exhaust, suspension bushes — all of which have been flagged repeatedly in the MOT history. A full set of tyres for a Combo is roughly £200-£300 fitted, front shock absorbers around £100-£150 each plus fitting, and exhaust sections for older vans typically cost £150-£300 depending on whether pattern or original specification parts are used. Older Combos benefit from a healthy aftermarket parts ecosystem, keeping repair costs manageable, but the labour time on corrosion-related work can quickly exceed the value of the vehicle.

Estimated annual running cost: £1,200-£1,800 including fuel, tax, insurance, and a realistic maintenance allowance reflecting the wear pattern evident in the MOT history.

Begin with a thorough inspection of the rear suspension inner arches and mounting areas — this was flagged as 'excessively corroded significantly reducing structural strength' on both sides in the October 2023 failure, and corrosion in these areas tends to progress. Place the vehicle on a ramp if possible and check the inner wheel arch structures, rear axle mounting points, and load floor seams for any perforation. Surface rust treatment is one thing; structural corrosion at suspension mounting points can render the vehicle uneconomical to repair and potentially unsafe.

The MOT history shows recurring concerns with steering components — universal joint wear and steering rack free play have appeared in both 2023 and 2025 tests. On inspection, turn the steering lock-to-lock with the engine running and listen for clonking or roughness. Check for excessive play in the steering wheel before any road wheel movement is felt, and inspect the steering rack gaiters for splits. The anti-roll bar ball joint that was 'likely to become detached' in 2023 should be physically checked — jack the front of the vehicle, grip the wheel at 9 and 3 o'clock, and try to detect any looseness.

Finally, examine the braking system comprehensively. The parking brake has been flagged as 'only just met' in three of the four recorded tests, suggesting the rear brake mechanism may need adjustment, new cables, or rear brake shoes. Check all brake pipes (front and rear) for corrosion damage, and inspect the ABS warning lamp operation during ignition. Verify the operation of all external lamps — the December 2025 failure included a non-functional nearside stop lamp, which suggests possible wiring or switch issues. Given the working-van origins, also check the sliding door mechanism, load area floor condition, and the rear door hinges for wear.