1997 Volkswagen Transporter 2.4L Diesel · R814 BUA
1997 Volkswagen Transporter (2.4L, diesel). First registered 01/11/1997. Recorded mileage 108,251 miles. MOT valid until 17/04/2027.
- Make & Model
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER
- Year / Origin
- 1997 · Reading
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 17/04/2027
- Road Tax
- Untaxed (25/08/2026)
- Recorded Mileage
- 108,251 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- DIESEL · 2.4L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- DIESEL
- Year
- 1997
- Engine
- 2370cc
R814 BUA Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 16/04/2026
- 108,251 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 1 defect noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (2 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Good
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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R814 BUA Mileage History
- 12/04/202384,403 mi
- 16/04/202492,010 mi+7,607 mi
- 10/04/2025101,461 mi+9,451 mi
- 16/04/2026108,251 mi+6,790 mi
- 16/04/2026108,251 mi
Average of roughly 7,919 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
R814 BUA MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 1997 Volkswagen Transporter (R814 BUA) between April 2023 and April 2026.
The record contains 4 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 16 April 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Brakes (2 issues), Windscreen (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 2 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with confidence, but ensure the
When inspecting this R-reg Transporter, your primary focus should be the recent MOT failure regarding the rear service brakes. Confirm that the 'fluctuating' braking issue on both the nearside and offside rear brakes has been rectified with new discs or pads, and check for any remaining pedal pulsation during a test drive.
As with any older diesel Transporter, check the service history for regular oil changes and timing belt replacements, as these are critical for the 2370cc engine. Given the age, also inspect the chassis for any signs of corrosion that may not have been captured in the recent MOT advisories, and ensure the windscreen wiper mechanism is fully functional following its recent failure.
Running costs for this 2.4L diesel model will be higher than a modern equivalent due to its age and engine displacement. Expect moderate fuel economy typical of late-90s diesel vans, and insurance groups for older Transporters can vary depending on your age and location.
Maintenance costs should be budgeted for regularly, particularly for suspension and braking components which are common wear items. An estimated annual running cost, including fuel, tax, and routine maintenance, would sit in the mid-range for a commercial vehicle of this vintage.
Directly address the April 2026 MOT failure by inspecting the rear braking system. Ensure the rear discs are not warped and that the calipers are moving freely to prevent the 'fluctuating' sensation noted in the test.
Additionally, check the windscreen wiper assembly to ensure the motor and blades provide clear visibility, as this was a specific point of failure. Finally, given the 108,251 mileage, check the condition of all rubber seals and hoses, as age-related perishability is common in vehicles from the 1997 era.
This 1997 Volkswagen Transporter presents with 108,251 miles, which is notably low for a 28-year-old diesel van. The MOT history shows a consistent pattern of passes, with a clean record from 2023 through 2025, interrupted only by a minor failure in April 2026 involving braking and wiper components. The grey 2.4L diesel engine variant appears to have been used moderately over its lifetime.
No aggregate reliability data is available for this specific model to provide a statistical comparison.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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