2003 Ford Transit Connect 1.8L Diesel · EF52 AON

The vehicle’s most recent MOT tests in September 2025 reveal an unusual but technically non-alarming pattern: two identical tests conducted on the same day, one passing and one failing, with no recorded defects or advisories. This suggests either a procedural anomaly in the testing process or a rare instance of a vehicle being retested without mechanical changes. The preceding MOTs from 2024, 2023, and 2022 all passed cleanly with no defects, indicating a stable maintenance history over the past four years. The absence of advisories or recurring faults in the official record implies that, at the time of testing, no critical components—such as suspension bushes, coil springs, or brake calipers—were deemed unsafe or beyond serviceable limits. However, the double-testing in 2025 warrants further scrutiny, as it deviates from standard practice. The recorded mileage progression shows a consistent average of approximately 7,147 miles per year, which aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age. There are no significant gaps in mileage between tests, and the 9,234-mile increase between the 2022 and 2023 tests (from 163,792 to 154,331 miles) appears to be an error in the record, as the 2024 test shows a more logical jump to 155,146 miles. The most recent mileage of 164,376 miles, recorded in September 2025, suggests the vehicle has been driven regularly without prolonged periods of inactivity. While this pattern is unremarkable, it does not preclude the need for a thorough inspection of high-wear components that might not have been flagged in previous MOTs. Given the lack of recorded defects, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear axle bushes and coil springs, which are common failure points in vehicles of this age and mileage. The double MOT testing in 2025 raises questions about potential undetected issues, so the condition of the brake discs and calipers—especially for binding or excessive wear—should be closely examined. Structural integrity, particularly around the wheel arches and sills, should also be assessed for corrosion, as this is a critical but often overlooked risk in older vans. Finally, the exhaust system and emissions should be checked for leaks or excessive smoke, as these are frequently overlooked until they fail an MOT. The absence of advisories in past tests does not guarantee current compliance, so a detailed mechanical review is essential.