1997 Ford Bongo 2.5L Diesel · R626 YTF

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance history shows a worsening trend regarding fluid leaks and braking system performance. The most recent test in August 2025 at 228,832 miles identified binding on both rear brake calipers and a non-excessive fluid leak. This follows a pattern from June 2024 where the nearside front brake was also flagged for binding and both coolant and hydraulic leaks were noted. While the vehicle consistently passes, these recurring issues suggest aging components that are nearing functional failure. The mileage pattern is consistent with a vehicle of 29 years age, averaging approximately 7,900 miles per year. There is a significant gap in records between 2017 and 2021, during which the vehicle covered only 2,460 miles over four years. Since that period, usage has increased, with over 4,500 miles recorded between the 2024 and 2025 tests. This recent increase in activity likely explains the emergence of fresh wear on rubber components and seals as seen in the latest advisories. A buyer must conduct a thorough structural inspection of the sills and wheel arches, as corrosion notes date back to 2014 and 2016. The presence of corroded seat belt anchorages in 2017 indicates that structural integrity in the passenger area is a known concern. Furthermore, the power steering system requires close attention; records show persistent seepage dating back to 2015 and 2016. The braking system should also be inspected for uneven wear or seized pistons, as the tester has flagged binding issues in the two most recent inspections.