2004 Vauxhall Combo 1700 DI 1.7L Heavy oil · VCZ 4160

A clean and largely stable roadworthiness profile defines this 2004 Vauxhall Combo 1700 DI, with the most recent MOT test on 12 February 2025 returning a pass and no advisories or defects recorded against it. Looking further back, the vehicle passed on 17 April 2023 and 14 January 2022, both again with a clean sheet. The two earlier test entries from 23 December 2021 and 20 August 2021 show failures, but notably no defects are recorded against either, suggesting both were likely straightforward presentation or documentation issues rather than mechanical component failures. Since that earlier troubled patch, the vehicle has strung together three consecutive passes, indicating a stable and improving mechanical condition heading into any current purchase decision. With 129,720 miles accumulated over approximately 22 years of service, this Combo has covered around 5,896 miles per year, a notably low annual figure for a commercial vehicle of this type. Such restrained usage is consistent with a vehicle that may have seen light commercial duties or experienced periods of standing between jobs. Mechanically, this profile suggests lower than typical wear on major drivetrain components, including the diesel engine, clutch, and transmission internals, while placing greater emphasis on checking items that degrade through age rather than mileage. Rubber components, suspension bushes, brake hydraulic seals, coolant hoses, and the condition of flexible brake lines warrant particular scrutiny given the cumulative years on the road, regardless of the modest odometer reading. For any prospective buyer, a thorough pre-purchase inspection should focus on the areas where age-related degradation is most likely to have manifested. On a test drive, listen for clonks or knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, particularly from the lower control arm bushes and anti-roll bar drop links, both known wear items on this platform. Feel for any pulling under braking or uneven pedal response, which could indicate binding caliper sliders or a stuck rear brake mechanism. Inspect the underside closely for any surface corrosion on subframe mounting points, brake pipe unions, and the exhaust system, paying special attention to flexible brake hose sections where age-related cracking can develop. A steady idle, prompt cold start, and clean exhaust with minimal visible smoke under acceleration would also be reassuring given the diesel powertrain. Finally, verify that the vehicle has been actively used in the months leading up to purchase. Combos that have stood for extended periods can develop issues such as a discharged battery, seized handbrake mechanism, or stiff brake calipers, and a brief confirmation of regular recent use is worthwhile. Confirm that all previous advisories, given the prior failures, have been genuinely resolved rather than simply carried forward, and ensure the current V5C and service documentation align with the recorded MOT history. With the strong recent pass pattern and the underlying mileage indicating light mechanical demand, this example appears to be a reasonable candidate provided the age-related wear points are carefully checked during inspection.