2018 Vauxhall Combo 1.6L Diesel · SC68 JNF

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 26 January 2026 resulted in a Pass, although the inspection did flag a Minor defect concerning the nearside front wiper blade, which the examiner categorised as defective under section 3.4 (b) (i). While not a failure item, this should be remedied promptly to ensure legal visibility standards and prevent smearing across the windscreen during poor weather. Alongside this minor item, the examiner raised three advisories: a worn, pitted, or scored rear brake disc; rear inner brake pads wearing thin; and an oil leak deemed not excessive at this stage. Reviewing the broader MOT history, the trend appears broadly stable rather than deteriorating, with clean Pass outcomes recorded throughout 2021 and 2023. However, the recurrence of an oil leak advisory, first noted at the front in January 2025 and now apparently from a different location in 2026, does suggest an unresolved sealing issue that warrants closer scrutiny. The progression of brake-related advisories in the latest test indicates that the braking system, particularly at the rear axle, is beginning to demand attention. With 122,804 miles recorded over an eight-year lifespan, this Vauxhall Combo has averaged approximately 15,350 miles annually, which is notably high for a light commercial or passenger vehicle of this age. There are no extended gaps in the MOT history that would suggest prolonged standing periods, which is mechanically favourable in some respects as it avoids issues such as brake disc corrosion from inactivity, seized caliper pistons, or perished tyre sidewalls. Conversely, this level of sustained high mileage implies significant wear on the engine, clutch, turbocharger (if applicable), suspension components, and drivetrain. A buyer should expect that items such as timing wheels, injectors, dual-mass flywheel, and clutch assembly may be approaching or past their typical service thresholds on a vehicle of this mileage profile. Given the advisory concerning the rear brake disc scoring and thinning rear pads, a thorough physical inspection should be carried out before purchase. Listen for any brake shudder or vibration through the pedal during a firm test stop from around 40 mph, which would indicate disc run-out or uneven wear. Inspect the rear discs for a visible lip at the outer edge and check pad material thickness with a torch; if the inner pads are flagged as wearing thin, replacement of both discs and pads on the rear axle is likely imminent. The recurring oil leak advisory across two consecutive tests is also a concern; although deemed not excessive, any leak left unaddressed can lead to component damage, particularly if originating from the cam cover, sump, or front crankshaft seal. On a test drive, listen for any rhythmic ticking that may accelerate with engine revs, and inspect the underside for fresh oil residue or staining on ancillary components. Beyond the recorded advisories, this mileage and age combination demands several time-based and wear-based checks that fall outside the MOT remit. The timing chain or belt service interval must be verified against the service book, as failure of either on a high-mileage Combo can result in catastrophic engine damage. Inspect all four tyres for tread depth and, critically, check the sidewalls for perishing or cracking, as ageing rubber compounds deteriorate regardless of mileage. Given the high annual usage, examine the suspension bushes, anti-roll bar links, and coil springs for any sagging or splitting, listening for clonks over speed bumps or uneven road surfaces. Verify that the 12V battery is holding charge correctly, check the colour and age of the coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, and confirm that the service book stamps align with the mileage shown. Finally, examine the exhaust system for corrosion at the mounting points and joints, as road salt exposure combined with high mileage will typically weaken the rear silencer and flexi section on a vehicle of this profile.