2004 Ford Transit 2.4L Diesel · NA04 ABX

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 26 August 2026, though the overall maintenance trend appears to be marginally declining. While the vehicle is currently roadworthy, the history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories and recent failures involving critical drivetrain and safety components. The persistence of structural corrosion advisories over multiple years suggests a vehicle that is struggling with oxidation, which is common for a commercial vehicle of this vintage but requires close scrutiny to ensure long-term viability. With 180,753 miles recorded over 22 years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 8,216 miles per year. This usage rate is considered typical for a Ford Transit of this era, suggesting a balanced life of utility without extreme over-use or prolonged periods of stagnation. However, at this mileage, the drivetrain, suspension, and braking systems have undergone significant wear. The buyer should expect that many original components are reaching the end of their natural service life, necessitating a shift from routine maintenance to more frequent component replacement. Particular attention must be paid to the chassis and drivetrain. The recurring advisory regarding front vehicle structure corrosion near mountings is a significant concern; a prospective buyer should inspect the chassis rails for deep pitting or scaling, as this can eventually compromise structural integrity. The 2025 failure for an excessively worn central prop shaft bearing indicates potential drivetrain instability; during a test drive, listen for thumping or vibrations under acceleration. Furthermore, the history of play in the steering rack inner joints and damaged ball joint covers suggests the steering geometry may be degraded, which often manifests as a vague steering feel or knocking sounds when turning at low speeds. The braking system requires a thorough physical inspection due to previous advisories for corroded rear brake pipes and an ABS sensor fault. Check for any signs of fresh grease used to mask corrosion on the lines and ensure the ABS warning lamp extinguishes correctly upon startup. The previous reports of misting front shock absorbers and worn anti-roll bar linkages suggest the suspension is fatigued, which may result in excessive body roll or a bouncy ride. Finally, the persistent windscreen damage and a previous dangerous failure for tyre tread depth indicate a historically lax approach to preventative maintenance, meaning the buyer should verify the current age and condition of all tyres and the validity of the most recent service interval.