2003 VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER2.5L Diesel

The vehicle shows signs of a worsening maintenance trend, with recent MOT results highlighting increasing issues with corrosion and component wear. While the March 2026 test at 143,831 miles resulted in a pass, the tester flagged corrosive front suspension components and a nearside front tyre worn close to the legal limit. This follows a more significant failure in March 2025 at 142,136 miles, where the vehicle failed on multiple counts including defective shock absorber bushes, lighting issues, and an illegible registration plate. The mileage accumulation is consistent with a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 6,254 miles per year. The record shows steady usage over the last decade, with the mileage increasing from 131,262 in April 2017 to the current 143,831 in March 2026. There are no significant gaps in the testing history, suggesting the vehicle has been in regular use rather than sitting idle for long periods. A prospective buyer must prioritize a thorough inspection of the chassis and suspension systems. The MOT history shows a recurring pattern of corrosion in the front suspension components dating back to at least 2025, and brake disc deterioration has been a persistent advisory or failure point since 2020. The tester noted pitted and scored discs on both front and rear axles in several recent tests, including March 2023 and March 2025. The buyer should also examine the condition of the brake hoses and the overall integrity of the braking system, given the previous failures regarding hose deterioration in 2021 and fluctuating service brakes. While the vehicle has passed its most recent test, the combination of ongoing corrosion and wear on consumables like tyres and brake discs suggests that maintenance has often been reactive rather than preventative. A professional inspection of the underside to assess the extent of structural corrosion is essential.