2020 Fiat Ducato 2.3L Diesel · LA69 UOL

The Fiat Ducato’s most recent MOT test on 5 March 2026—just four months ago—confirmed full roadworthiness with no defects recorded at 159,508 miles. This marks a clean pass following a minor issue in July 2025, where a non-structural tyre cut and a faulty side repeater were the only failures. The absence of recurring faults in the latest test suggests the vehicle has been maintained adequately since then, though the earlier nearside rear suspension ball joint play at 123,663 miles (February 2024) indicates a component that may require closer scrutiny. The tyre cut in July 2025, while not severe, implies basic upkeep was overlooked at that point, though it has since been addressed. The recorded mileage of 159,508 miles over six years equates to an average of 26,585 miles annually, which is unusually high for a commercial van of this age. This rapid accumulation raises concerns about accelerated wear on suspension bushes, coil springs, and drivetrain components. Notably, there is a 10-month gap between the February 2024 and July 2025 tests, during which 35,652 miles were logged—suggesting either heavy usage or a period of deferred maintenance. The most recent test in March 2026 follows a 5-month interval, indicating the vehicle has been kept in regular circulation since then. Given the history, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the nearside rear suspension rod ball joint, which showed slight play in February 2024 and has not been flagged since. The offside rear tyre cut from July 2025 warrants verification that it has been repaired professionally and that no further damage has developed. Structural integrity should be checked for signs of corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches, sills, and suspension mounts, as high mileage increases vulnerability to rust-related failures. Additionally, the brake system—though not explicitly failed—should be assessed for uneven wear, binding calipers, or corrosion on the near and offside rear discs, given the van’s heavy-duty usage.