1996 FORD TRANSIT2.5L Diesel

The vehicle presents a stable and reassuring roadworthiness profile. The most recent MOT, conducted on 13 February 2026 at 111,662 miles, passed with zero defects recorded. This clean sheet extends a pattern of consistent passes, with the only blemish being a no-defect failure on 4 August 2021 at 108,051 miles, likely an administrative or procedural issue rather than a mechanical one. The maintenance trend is firmly stable, indicating a vehicle that has been kept in good order without recurring faults. The mileage accumulation tells a story of exceptionally light use for a 1996 vehicle. Between the August 2021 test at 108,043 miles and the February 2025 test at 108,414 miles, the vehicle covered just 371 miles over roughly three and a half years, suggesting prolonged periods of standing. The jump to 111,662 miles by February 2026 represents a more active 3,248 miles in the following year. This irregular pattern raises questions about long-term standing effects, particularly fuel system degradation, tyre age-related cracking, and brake corrosion from lack of use, despite the low overall mileage. A buyer should pay close attention to components that suffer from inactivity rather than wear. Inspect all four tyres for date codes and sidewall cracking, as rubber degrades with age regardless of tread depth. Check the brake discs and calipers for surface corrosion and binding, since a vehicle sitting for extended periods can develop stuck calipers and uneven disc corrosion. Examine the exhaust system for internal condensation corrosion and the fuel tank and lines for signs of stale fuel contamination or rust. The underbody and structural mounting points deserve a thorough inspection. Even with low mileage, a 30-year-old commercial vehicle is susceptible to corrosion on sills, cross-members, and suspension mounting points, particularly if it has stood on damp ground. Check the suspension bushes, coil springs, and shock absorbers for deterioration, and verify that all lights, wipers, and washers function correctly, as long periods of disuse can cause electrical and ancillary component seizure.