2016 Vauxhall Combo 1.2L Diesel · FD16 VKA

The most recent MOT test on 2026-04-15 resulted in a clean pass, but the vehicle’s overall maintenance history reveals a pattern of recurring issues rather than consistent stability. While the latest inspection was free of major failures, the prior two years have seen multiple failures—particularly in the suspension and tyres—with the 2024 MOT marking a critical point where the offside rear tyre was deemed dangerous due to tread depth below the legal minimum of 1.6mm, alongside a missing anti-slip provision on the brake pedal. The 2025 and 2023 tests also highlighted persistent wear on suspension components, including offside front suspension arm bushes and rear shock absorber bushes, which, if left unaddressed, could lead to progressive alignment and handling degradation. The vehicle’s history suggests a trend of deferred maintenance, with some issues only surfacing when they reached critical thresholds, indicating either neglect or a lack of proactive servicing. The recorded mileage of 128,625 miles for a vehicle aged ten years represents a high annual usage rate of approximately 12,862 miles per annum, which is notably elevated for its age. Such mileage accumulation accelerates wear on consumables like tyres, brakes, suspension components, and drivetrain elements, as evidenced by the MOT failures. The rapid mileage suggests either intensive daily use or periods of prolonged inactivity followed by heavy driving, both of which can exacerbate wear patterns. The offside rear tyre failures in 2024 and 2023, coupled with the balding and cracking observed in prior tests, underscore the criticality of tyre rotation and monitoring for uneven wear, which can indicate misalignment or suspension issues. Additionally, the high mileage may have contributed to fluid degradation, such as brake fluid corrosion or coolant system stress, warranting a closer inspection of these systems during a test drive. Given the vehicle’s history of suspension and tyre failures, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough mechanical inspection before purchase. Focus on the suspension system by checking for excessive play in the offside front suspension arms, which may indicate bush wear or pin failure—symptoms include a noticeable clunking or rattling when driving over bumps, particularly on the offside side. Inspect the rear suspension for uneven ride height or binding calipers, which could suggest worn shock absorbers or strut mounts. The tyres should be examined for lateral balding on the inner edges, which often correlates with alignment or camber issues, and listen for any unusual noises from the wheels during a test drive, such as scraping or grinding, which may indicate worn brake pads or damaged brake discs. Additionally, verify that the brake pedal feels firm and does not exhibit excessive travel or sponginess, as the 2024 MOT failure highlighted a missing anti-slip provision, which could lead to reduced braking efficiency. For fluid systems, the buyer should check the brake fluid level and condition, as brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, reducing effectiveness. A test drive with the brakes applied firmly should reveal no shuddering or pulsation, which could signal warped discs or soft pads. The exhaust system should be inspected for leaks, particularly around the rear silencer, as the 2024 MOT noted a minor leak, which could worsen with time. Given the vehicle’s age and high mileage, the engine oil and coolant should be fresh, with no signs of sludge or overheating history. A visual check for corrosion on the bodywork, particularly around the wheel arches and undercarriage, is essential, as prolonged exposure to moisture can accelerate rust progression. Finally, the 12V battery should be tested for charge retention and cold-cranking amps, as older vehicles are more susceptible to failing due to internal degradation or parasitic drains. If the MOT history were cleaner or the mileage lower, the buyer would also prioritise checking for tyre sidewall perishing, which can occur from age alone, and verifying that the service book records align with the vehicle’s age and usage.