2020 Volkswagen Crafter CR35 Startline TDI 2.0L Diesel · FN20 LRJ

The most recent MOT inspection on 11 May 2026 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance history shows a concerning trend of increasing mechanical instability and frequent failures. While the 2025 test was clean, the subsequent 2026 period has seen a rapid succession of major failures involving critical components such as the nearside front coil spring, the nearside front outer drive shaft CV boot, and electrical lighting issues. The transition from a clean pass in 2025 to multiple major defects in 2026 suggests that the vehicle is entering a phase of accelerated component degradation, where wear and tear are beginning to manifest across several different systems simultaneously rather than as isolated incidents. With 139,559 miles recorded over approximately six years, this Volkswagen Crafter has covered an average of roughly 23,260 miles per year. This is significantly higher than the typical UK average for a commercial vehicle of this age, indicating heavy, consistent usage, likely in a long-distance or high-frequency transit capacity. Such high annual mileage places substantial stress on the drivetrain, suspension, and braking systems. While high mileage can sometimes indicate a well-maintained fleet vehicle that has not been left to sit, it also means that consumables such as bushes, bearings, and dampers are likely nearing the end of their service life and will require more frequent replacement to maintain roadworthiness. Prospective buyers must pay close attention to the recurring advisories and recent major failures. The repeated mention of front brake discs being worn, pitted, or scored indicates that the braking system is under heavy load or has been subject to significant heat cycles. During a test drive, you should listen for any grinding noises during deceleration and feel for any steering wheel shudder or pedal vibration, which would indicate warped or unevenly worn discs. Furthermore, the advisory regarding an oil leak, combined with the previous failure of the exhaust flexi-pipe and emissions issues, suggests that the engine and exhaust thermal management may be compromised. You should inspect the engine bay and undercarriage for active leaks and listen for any loud, raspy exhaust notes or excessive vibration from the engine that could indicate a failing exhaust manifold or flexi-pipe. The recent failure of the nearside front coil spring and the drive shaft CV boot highlights a vulnerability in the front suspension and drivetrain assembly. On your test drive, pay close attention to any clunking or knocking sounds when turning the steering wheel at low speeds or when driving over uneven surfaces, as these are classic symptoms of worn CV joints or failing suspension components. Given the high mileage and the history of anti-roll bar ball joint wear, a thorough inspection of all rubber bushes and ball joints is essential. You should also verify the service history to ensure that oil changes and fluid replacements have been carried out at the correct intervals, as the high mileage and recorded oil leak could lead to premature engine wear if not strictly managed.