2017 Volkswagen Crafter 2.0L Diesel · LL17 NVM

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 16 January 2026, but the overall maintenance trend is currently deteriorating. While the vehicle has a history of passes, the recent emergence of multiple advisories regarding the steering and suspension, coupled with recurring brake wear issues, suggests that the vehicle is entering a phase of increased mechanical wear. The transition from a clean record in 2021 and 2022 to a growing list of chassis-related advisories indicates that preventative maintenance may have lagged behind the vehicle's natural aging process. With 60,144 recorded miles over approximately nine years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 6,683 miles per year. This is a moderate usage profile for a commercial vehicle of this type, meaning it has avoided the extreme wear associated with high-mileage fleet work but has not stood idle long enough to suffer from severe stagnation issues. However, this level of usage means that rubber components, such as suspension bushes and steering joints, are likely reaching the end of their service life due to age and environmental degradation rather than sheer mileage. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the steering and suspension during a test drive. The recurring advisory for play in the steering rack inner joints is a point of concern; listen for clunks or knocks when turning the wheel at low speeds or when driving over uneven surfaces. Additionally, the worn anti-roll bar pins and bushes on the rear axle may cause a lack of stability in corners or audible knocking sounds over speed bumps. The brake history is also inconsistent, with a dangerous failure for rear pads in 2021 and a current advisory for thin rear pads. Ensure the brakes feel firm and there is no shuddering under heavy braking, as the rear pads will require immediate replacement. Finally, the recurring minor defect regarding windscreen damage should be inspected to ensure the chips have not spread into cracks that could impair visibility or fail a future test. Given the vehicle's age, you should verify the service history to ensure that calendar-based maintenance, such as brake fluid flushes and coolant changes, has been performed regardless of the moderate mileage. Check the tyre treads and sidewalls for any signs of perishing or uneven wear, which would further confirm the suspension play noted in the MOT records. A thorough inspection of the underbody for corrosion is also recommended to ensure the structural integrity remains sound.