2007 Fiat Ducato 2.2L Diesel · YR07 YSD

The most recent MOT, dated 28 October 2025, was passed but returned several advisories covering rear‑structure corrosion, brake‑disc surface condition and a near‑side front service‑brake binding tendency. Over the last five years the vehicle has alternated between passes and isolated failures, the latter generally linked to minor lighting faults or the same recurring advisories. The pattern shows a stable but slightly deteriorating maintenance picture: the core safety items (lights, brakes, suspension) remain within legal limits, yet the persistence of corrosion notes and wear‑related advisories suggests that components are approaching the point where corrective work will become necessary. At 91 685 miles on a 2007 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 4 800 mi, well below the typical 10‑12 000 mi expected for a light commercial vehicle. Such low utilisation often points to long periods of inactivity, which can accelerate under‑seal corrosion, battery sulphation and fluid breakdown. There are no obvious mileage spikes that would indicate heavy loading or abusive use, but the modest running distance means wear on consumables is likely to be less advanced than the calendar age would suggest. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the areas repeatedly flagged in the MOT records. Inspect the near‑side rear and off‑side rear structural panels for any signs of rust‑through, especially around the sill and cross‑member, and verify that the under‑seal remains intact; any delamination could permit moisture ingress and accelerate corrosion. Examine the front lower suspension arm on the near‑side for looseness or excessive play, and listen for clunking or knocking over bumps that would indicate a worn bush or deteriorated pin. The off‑side front wheel bearing was noted with slight play – a bearing that is beginning to fail will produce a humming or grinding noise that changes with vehicle speed and may worsen under load. Both front and rear brake discs have been described as pitted or scored; during a test drive feel for any pulsation or shudder when applying the brakes, and check the disc thickness against the manufacturer’s minimum. Rear tyres showed a nail and early cracking – assess the sidewalls for dry‑rot, verify the tread depth, and consider replacing the tyres if the rubber has exceeded five years, regardless of remaining tread. Beyond the specific advisories, the vehicle’s age warrants a comprehensive time‑based service check. Verify the condition of the 12 V battery, looking for sulphation and confirming that it holds charge under load, as prolonged standing can diminish capacity. Drain and replace all engine and transmission fluids if they have not been serviced in the past 12‑18 months, paying particular attention to brake fluid, which absorbs moisture over time and can affect braking performance. Confirm that all exterior lighting – especially the registration plate lamp and near‑side headlamp – operates correctly and that the lens is clean of any film that could reduce output. Finally, request a full service history and any receipts for corrosion repairs or under‑seal re‑applications; a well‑documented remedial programme will give confidence that the structural integrity has been maintained despite the noted advisories.