2015 Volkswagen Crafter 2.0L Diesel · FP65 UTR

Chronic underbody corrosion and persistent fluid leaks define the mechanical history of this vehicle, which passed its most recent MOT on 2026-06-23 despite a significant list of advisories. There is a recurring pattern of brake pipe corrosion and oil leaks appearing across multiple years of testing, alongside intermittent issues with steering rack play and structural corrosion. The trend suggests a vehicle where wear and tear are accumulating faster than they are being rectified, particularly regarding the braking system and chassis integrity. The recorded mileage of 208,370 miles over an eleven-year period represents a high annual average of approximately 18,943 miles. This level of usage typically results in accelerated wear on heavy-duty components, including the drivetrain, suspension bushings, and braking hardware. Such high mileage increases the likelihood of fatigue in structural components and the degradation of rubber seals, which aligns with the repeated recording of oil leaks and suspension wear in the MOT history. Immediate attention is required for the braking system, as the latest records indicate corroded brake pipes all around the vehicle, thin nearside front pads, and a binding nearside front service brake. During a test drive, feel for any pulling to one side or an uneven brake pedal response, and check for excessive heat emanating from the nearside front wheel after a short journey. The recurring mention of play in the steering rack inner joints should be investigated by checking for vagueness or a dead spot in the steering feel at centre and during low-speed manoeuvring. The persistent oil leak, noted since at least 2022, and the newly recorded exhaust leak require physical inspection for the source and severity of the seepage. Examine the underbody for signs of active dripping and listen for an audible hiss or smell of exhaust fumes in the cabin, which would indicate the leak is significant. Given the previous failure for worn lower suspension arm ball joints and the general underbody corrosion noted in 2025, a thorough inspection of the subframe and suspension mounting points is essential to ensure structural integrity.