2016 Volkswagen Crafter 2.0L Diesel · RV66 XVP

The most recent MOT inspection on 27 February 2026 resulted in a pass, though the vehicle continues to present recurring advisories that suggest a pattern of reactive rather than preventative maintenance. While the major failures regarding track rod ends and shock absorber leaks from 2024 and 2025 appear to have been rectified, the persistence of oil leak advisories dating back to 2020 indicates a long-term seepage that has never been fully resolved. The maintenance trend is somewhat inconsistent; while critical steering components have been addressed, the ongoing presence of tyre wear advisories and the recent damage to the offside front seat belt stalk suggest that consumable items and minor interior components are only being attended to when they approach a failure threshold. With 149,729 miles recorded over approximately ten years, this Volkswagen Crafter has averaged roughly 15,000 miles per year. This is relatively high mileage for a commercial vehicle of this age, indicating heavy or consistent usage which typically accelerates the wear and tear on suspension bushings, drivetrain components, and braking systems. High-mileage diesel engines of this type are subject to significant thermal and mechanical stress, meaning that while the mileage is consistent with a working vehicle, the cumulative wear on components like the turbocharger, fuel injectors, and clutch assembly should be a primary consideration for any prospective buyer. During your test drive, you must pay close attention to the steering and front-end stability. Although the track rod ends were flagged for excessive play in 2025, any lingering vibration through the steering wheel or a wandering sensation at motorway speeds could indicate that the steering geometry is still imperfect or that other suspension components like ball joints or control arm bushes are nearing the end of their service life. Furthermore, given the repeated advisories regarding tyres being worn close to the legal limit or worn on the edges, you should inspect the current tread depth and look for signs of uneven wear, which could point to incorrect wheel alignment or worn shock absorbers. The recent advisory regarding the offside rear tyre suggests that tyre management is an ongoing issue for this vehicle. The long-standing advisory for an oil leak, described as not excessive, warrants a thorough inspection of the engine bay for heavy sludge or fresh pooling. You should check underneath the vehicle for active drips and examine the engine casing for significant grime buildup, which can mask more serious leaks from gaskets or seals. Additionally, the reported damage to the seat belt flexible stalk is a safety concern that should be verified for smooth operation and secure locking. Given the high mileage and age, I also recommend verifying the service history to ensure that interval-based maintenance, such as timing belt replacements and fluid changes, has been strictly adhered to, as the MOT history alone does not confirm the mechanical health of the engine's internal components.