2019 Vauxhall Combo 1.6L Diesel · FP68 PCZ

A defined pattern of brake-related defects dominates the recent DVSA history of this 2019 Vauxhall Combo and should be the primary concern for any prospective buyer. The latest test on 2 October 2025 was recorded as a pass with no advisories, but on the very same day a prior failure was logged against the same plate with a Dangerous categorisation for front brake pads measuring under 1.5 mm thick. Earlier in the year, a 3 March 2025 test failed on a Dangerous nearside rear tyre below the legal 1.6 mm tread threshold and a Major for a missing brake pedal anti-slip provision. The intervening pass on 5 March 2025 and the clean 15 February 2024 test confirm the platform itself is fundamentally sound, but the clustering of braking and tyre defects within a single calendar year indicates either rapid component wear or an interval where routine service items were allowed to expire before being rectified. Overall the trajectory is one of escalating immediate-safety items rather than long-term structural deterioration. With 134,762 miles accumulated over approximately seven years, this Combo is running at a high annual rate of around 19,250 miles per year, which is considerably above the average for a light commercial of this age. This intensity of use is consistent with the observed wear pattern on the friction and rubber components, but it also means that drivetrain, suspension and clutch items will be approaching or past their normal service intervals even if not yet flagged at test. There are no significant gaps between tests that would suggest extended standing periods, so battery, brake fluid and tyre degradation through inactivity is unlikely to be a factor here. The combination of high mileage and the failures recorded places this vehicle firmly in a higher-than-average wear band where component life cannot be assumed from the calendar alone. For an inspection, the braking system is the obvious starting point. Confirm the front pads have been replaced with a quality component and that the caliper slide pins have been cleaned and greased, paying particular attention to any binding or uneven pad wear that could indicate a sticking caliper. Inspect the front discs for lipping or scoring, as discs worn in tandem with the failed pads may also be due. On test, listen for any scraping or grinding on light brake application and check for a pulling sensation under firm braking that could indicate a seized caliper or uneven hydraulic pressure. Verify the brake pedal rubber or anti-slip pad is now correctly fitted and intact, as the Major failure recorded earlier suggests this was an oversight rather than a wear item. The tyres also warrant close inspection even though no advisory was carried forward. The nearside rear was below legal tread at the March test, so all four corners should be examined for even wear patterns, as uneven rear wear on a laden van can point to alignment, pressure or suspension geometry issues. The high annual mileage means the suspension bushes, anti-roll bar links and coil springs should be checked for cracking, sagging or knocking, particularly over speed humps and uneven roads where a tired Combo will transmit clonks into the cabin. Finally, with this level of use, request evidence of cambelt or timing chain service history and check for any signs of oil misting around the cam cover or turbo, as these are the next likely cost items once the immediate braking and tyre concerns are resolved.