2009 Vauxhall Combo 1.2L Diesel · FN59 XCB

The Vauxhall Combo most recently passed its MOT on 9 April 2026, with no defects or advisories recorded against the test. Worth noting is that this pass immediately followed a recorded failure on the previous day, 8 April 2026, although no defect details are listed for that earlier entry. Prior to this, the vehicle has enjoyed a continuous run of clean passes at its annual tests in April 2023, April 2024, and April 2025, each without any advisories logged. The absence of recurring advisory items across five consecutive test dates suggests the underlying mechanical condition has been broadly stable, with no obvious wear-related deterioration flagged by examiners during routine inspection. The unexplained pass-after-fail episode is unusual and, while it may simply reflect a minor rectification carried out between the two tests, a prospective buyer would be wise to request sight of the original failure documentation (the VT30 refusal sheet) to confirm what prompted the initial refusal and verify that any required repairs were completed to a satisfactory standard. With a recorded mileage of 112,823 miles over approximately 17 years, this Combo has covered around 6,637 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a light commercial vehicle of this age, though towards the lower end of average. This modest annual figure suggests the vehicle has either been used for shorter local runs or has experienced periods of standing idle between work cycles. Lower mileage on a commercial vehicle can be deceptive, as short journeys and infrequent use often impose their own particular stresses on components such as the 12V battery, starter motor, alternator, exhaust system (due to condensation accumulation), and brake calipers, which can seize from lack of regular use. Equally, despite the relatively modest annual figure, the absolute mileage remains substantial for a 2009 platform, so drivetrain components including the clutch, dual-mass flywheel if diesel, and gearbox synchros may still be approaching or past their expected service life. From a physical inspection standpoint, the buyer should pay close attention to age-related degradation rather than simply mileage-related wear. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall perishing and cracking, which is common on vehicles of this age even where tread depth remains adequate, and the production date codes on the sidewalls checked to confirm the rubber is not beyond six to seven years old. The brake discs, particularly on a vehicle that may stand for extended periods, are prone to surface corrosion and the calipers to seizing or binding, which can manifest as uneven pad wear, a pulling sensation under braking, or a reluctance of the caliper pistons to retract fully. A thorough test drive should include firm braking from speed to detect any shudder or pulsation through the pedal, which would indicate warped or excessively corroded discs requiring machining or replacement. Fluid condition and general service items warrant equal scrutiny given the vehicle's age. Coolant, brake fluid, and automatic transmission fluid (where applicable) all degrade over time irrespective of mileage, and a lack of service history stamps in the book should prompt a precautionary fluid refresh. The 12V battery should be load-tested, as frequent short trips and standing periods are particularly punishing on battery longevity, and a unit approaching the end of its service life may leave the operator stranded. Underneath, the vehicle should be examined on a ramp for any signs of structural corrosion, particularly around the rear axle mounts, sill seams, and load floor, as commercial Combos of this era are known to suffer rust in these areas. Finally, verify that the cam belt or timing chain service interval has been observed according to manufacturer schedule, as neglect of this item on a high-mileage unit can result in catastrophic engine damage, and confirm the presence of a complete service book history to corroborate the generally clean MOT record.