2005 Vauxhall Combo 1.7L Diesel · ML05 MRU

The 1.7-litre diesel Vauxhall Combo is frugal, typically returning 45–50 mpg in mixed use, and parts are inexpensive and widely available due to shared platforms with the Corsa-C. Road tax for a diesel of this age and emissions class will fall into a higher bracket (likely £150–£200 annually), and insurance is low — usually group 2–3E. However, the MOT history suggests this specific example is approaching the end of its economical life, with corrosion-related advisories appearing across nearly every recorded test and escalating into failures.

Annual maintenance on a 21-year-old Combo diesel of this mileage could easily run £500–£900 for routine servicing plus wear-and-tear items. Add likely £800–£1,500 to address the outstanding 2026 MOT failures (brake pipes, steering rack, exhaust, structural corrosion) and the cost of ownership becomes poor value. Estimated annual running cost is therefore £1,200–£1,800 once likely repairs are included, which is high for a vehicle of this market value.

Prioritise a close inspection of all brake pipes front-to-rear, as corrosion has been flagged in every MOT since at least 2024 and the May 2026 test deemed them excessively corroded. Inspect the front subframe and both sill mounting areas for corrosion — the 2026 fail noted structural strength being significantly reduced, which is a serious safety concern. Check the steering rack for free play at the wheel and inspect inner track rod joints, as play has been flagged on both sides repeatedly and finally resulted in a failure. Lift the rear of the vehicle and examine the trailing arm bushes and coil springs, as corrosion has been noted on all four springs since at least 2024. Test both windscreen wipers, both headlamps for output, and the registration plate lamps, as lighting and visibility items contributed to the latest failure. Finally, examine the exhaust system from manifold to rear silencer for leaks and corrosion, and check the underside for oil leaks.

A common weakness on this generation Combo is subframe and sill corrosion, often hidden behind plastic undertrims — request the vehicle be put on a ramp so these areas can be fully assessed. The 1.7 CDTi diesel is known for injector failure, timing belt tensioner wear, and dual-mass flywheel issues at high mileage, so listen for diesel knock on cold start and feel for clutch judder on the test drive. Confirm the spare wheel and tool kit are present and check the load bay floor for damage.