2011 Vauxhall Combo 1.7L Diesel · EY60 VFE

This Vauxhall Combo’s most recent MOT test, conducted on 2025-04-11 at 119,785 miles , shows a concerning pattern of repeated failures despite no recorded defects. The vehicle passed once on the same day yet failed the retest, suggesting either a procedural anomaly or a critical oversight in pre-test preparation. The preceding cycle, from 2024-03-28 to 2024-04-05 , also ended in failure after a brief pass, indicating an unresolved issue rather than a one-off error. While the 2023 test passed cleanly, the lack of any advisories or defects in the later records implies the failures were likely due to minor procedural lapses rather than latent mechanical faults. However, the retest failures warrant scrutiny of whether the vehicle was driven to the test in a suboptimal condition or if the tester overlooked a recurring fault. The recorded mileage of 119,785 miles over 15 years averages approximately 7,986 miles per annum , a rate consistent with typical light-to-moderate usage for a vehicle of this age. There are no significant gaps in the MOT history, though the 1,408-mile jump between the 2024 tests (from 117,327 to 117,378) suggests either a brief period of higher mileage or an error in logging. The absence of advisories or defects in the 2023 and 2024 tests implies the vehicle was likely maintained at a basic level, with no evidence of neglect in critical systems. Still, the repeated failures at the 2025 test raise questions about whether the vehicle was driven to the inspection in a condition that masked underlying issues. Given the lack of specific defect codes in the MOT history, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of suspension components , particularly the rear axle and bushes, as binding brakes were a recurring issue in Vauxhall Combos of this era. The rear brake calipers and discs should be checked for uneven wear or corrosion, while the exhaust system warrants inspection for leaks or structural weakening, especially given the vehicle’s age. Corrosion around the wheel arches, sills, and subframe is also a high-risk area for this model, as is the transmission and differential fluid condition , given the mileage. The tyre tread depth and lateral wear should be verified, though the MOT’s lack of advisories suggests this was not a persistent issue. Finally, the electrical system , including lights and indicators, should be tested rigorously, as failures in these areas often go unrecorded in MOTs but can indicate broader neglect.