2004 Ford Galaxy 1.9L Diesel · RV54 ADX

The most recent DVSA MOT test, conducted on 26 September 2025, resulted in a pass, indicating the vehicle met the minimum statutory roadworthiness requirements at the time of inspection. However, two advisories were recorded: a nearside rear tyre worn close to the legal limit or worn on edge, and light oil misting on the nearside rear shock absorber. Looking at the broader test history over the past five years, the vehicle has consistently passed without any failure items, which is a positive indicator of ongoing maintenance. Nonetheless, the pattern of advisories suggests a gradual accumulation of wear-related issues, particularly around the rear suspension and tyres, rather than a worsening or improving trend. The recurrence of nearside rear shock absorber oil misting in both 2022 and 2025 is notable and warrants close attention, as is the repeated appearance of nearside rear tyre wear advisories across multiple tests. With a recorded mileage of 208,485 miles over approximately 22 years, this Ford Galaxy has accumulated roughly 9,477 miles per year on average, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age and class. The MOT history does not reveal any significant gaps in annual testing, suggesting the vehicle has been in regular use throughout its life rather than left standing for extended periods. Continuous use at this mileage level means that consumable components such as brake pads, discs, tyres, suspension bushes, and drivetrain mounts will have experienced substantial wear cycles, and the prospective buyer should assume that major service items including timing belts, clutches, and gearbox work may have been required at some point. The relatively even annual mileage also implies fewer issues associated with long-term standing such as severe brake disc corrosion, seized calipers, or perished rubber components, though age-related degradation remains a relevant concern on a 22-year-old vehicle. Given the recurring advisories on the nearside rear shock absorber, a thorough physical inspection is advisable. Light oil misting suggests the damper seals are beginning to deteriorate, and while not an immediate failure point, this condition typically progresses over time. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the rear suspension over bumps, watch for excessive bouncing after compression, and observe whether the vehicle sits level when unladen. The nearside rear tyre edge wear is also a persistent issue, which may indicate an underlying tracking or suspension geometry problem, such as worn rear bushes, a weak shock absorber allowing the wheel to move excessively, or even a slight camber misalignment. A four-wheel alignment check and a close inspection of the rear suspension arms, bushes, and mounting points would be prudent before purchase. Beyond the recorded advisories, a vehicle of this age and mileage warrants attention to several time-based degradation items regardless of MOT outcome. Tyre sidewalls should be carefully examined for cracking or perishing, as rubber compounds harden with age even if tread depth remains adequate, and any tyres over six years old should be replaced as a matter of safety. The 12V battery should be tested for cranking performance, as batteries typically last five to six years and a failing unit can leave the vehicle stranded. Brake discs and calipers, even on a regularly driven car, can develop surface corrosion or suffer from binding, so the buyer should check for uneven pad wear, a spongy or dragging brake feel, and any signs of fluid leaks from the hydraulic system. Coolant and brake fluid should be verified as recently serviced, as these degrade on a calendar basis rather than mileage alone, and given the age of the vehicle, the exhaust system, particularly around joints and mounting points, should be inspected for corrosion given the minor leak advisory recorded in 2021.