2014 Vauxhall Combo 1.2L Diesel · YA63 XCE

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 18 February 2026, however, the overall maintenance trend indicates a gradual decline in the condition of the chassis and suspension components. The most recent test was preceded by a failure on the previous day due to excessive wear in the offside front Macpherson strut top bush, a component that had already been noted as rough or tight in the 2025 inspection. This pattern suggests a reactive approach to maintenance rather than a preventative one, with several suspension-related advisories persisting over multiple years. With a recorded mileage of 102,735 miles over approximately twelve years, the vehicle has averaged around 8,561 miles per year. This level of usage is considered typical for a light commercial vehicle of this age and does not suggest any unusual periods of standing or excessive heavy-duty operation. At this mileage threshold, it is expected that primary wear-and-tear items, specifically suspension bushings, dampers, and braking components, will have reached the end of their natural service life and may require comprehensive replacement to restore factory handling characteristics. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the front suspension and steering geometry. The recurring advisories regarding worn suspension arm bushes and the recent failure of the strut top bearing, combined with repeated notes of tyres wearing on the inner edges, strongly indicate a misalignment or tracking issue. During a test drive, listen for knocking or clunking sounds when traversing uneven road surfaces or when turning the steering wheel at low speeds. Inspect the inner and outer sidewalls of all tyres for uneven tread wear, as this confirms that the vehicle wheel alignment is compromised, which will lead to premature tyre failure if not corrected. Further inspection should focus on the braking system and rear damping. Previous records of pitted and scored front brake discs suggest a history of surface corrosion or infrequent heavy use, so the discs should be checked for thickness and a smooth surface finish. Additionally, the 2025 advisory regarding oil misting on the offside rear shock absorber indicates a leaking seal; a physical check for dampness around the shock body is advised, as a blown damper will affect vehicle stability and braking distance. Finally, verify the service history to ensure that calendar-based fluid changes have been performed, as the age of the vehicle makes oil and coolant degradation a primary concern regardless of the mileage.