2021 Fiat Ducato 2.3L Diesel · UB18 NOW

The 2021 Fiat Ducato’s most recent MOT, conducted on 17 October 2025 at 79,721 miles, passed but carried a single advisory for a defective gearbox mounting—a persistent issue that also appeared in the October 2025 failure. This suggests a recurring mechanical concern that has not been resolved, despite the vehicle passing its most recent test. The trend over the past year is unstable, with three consecutive failures between September 2024 and October 2025, followed by a single pass. The October 2025 failure alone listed five major defects, including critical brake and tyre conditions, indicating a vehicle that has not been consistently maintained. The most recent advisory implies the gearbox mounting remains unresolved, which could affect drivetrain alignment and long-term reliability. The recorded mileage of 79,721 miles over five years equates to approximately 15,944 miles annually, a rate significantly higher than the average for a commercial van of this age. The gap between the 2024 pass at 77,409 miles and the first failure in October 2025 at 79,610 miles—just 2,181 miles—suggests rapid accumulation of wear, particularly in critical systems. The absence of an MOT between September 2024 and October 2025 implies the vehicle was likely driven continuously without intermediate checks, a pattern that exacerbates preventable failures. The near-identical mileages at failure points (79,610 and 79,645) further indicate a lack of pre-test maintenance, as minor issues would typically be addressed before a test. A buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the gearbox mounting and surrounding components, as its repeated failure suggests structural fatigue or improper installation. The parking brake’s consistent inefficiency—recorded in two consecutive failures—demands verification of hydraulic or mechanical integrity, including cable tension and caliper binding. The rear suspension ball joint with slight play, noted in October 2025, warrants closer examination for accelerated wear or corrosion, particularly given the high mileage. Tyres show a pattern of neglect, with cuts and perishing in October 2025, so tread depth, sidewall integrity, and valve stems should be thoroughly checked. Headlamp alignment, while not a safety risk in itself, often correlates with general vehicle neglect, so optical systems should be tested for proper function and adjustment. Structural corrosion, particularly around wheel arches and suspension mounts, should be inspected, as high mileage increases vulnerability to hidden deterioration.