2004 Ford Transit 2.4L Diesel · RX54 AAE

The most recent MOT test on 2026-03-20 resulted in a passing outcome, though it carried several persistent advisories that suggest ongoing but manageable issues rather than a sudden deterioration. The vehicle’s maintenance history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories—particularly concerning the oil leak, rear anti-roll bar wear, and minor exhaust leaks—without any critical failures in the last year. While the 2025 and 2024 tests showed a major brake-related failure (offside front power steering pipe corrosion) and a dangerous brake condition (disc weakening and pad thickness below 1.5mm) in 2022, the current test indicates these issues have either been addressed or are now under control. The presence of multiple advisories, however, indicates that the vehicle requires proactive attention to prevent escalation, especially given the wear on suspension components and the persistent brake-related concerns. The recorded mileage of 74,494 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 22 years is unusually low, averaging around 3,386 miles annually—a rate that suggests either infrequent use or prolonged periods of inactivity. Such low mileage can mask wear from standing, particularly in the braking system, power steering components, and suspension, where corrosion and binding can develop without regular movement. The absence of higher mileage accumulation implies that consumables like brake pads, seals, and fluid systems may not have been subjected to the same levels of stress as a vehicle with heavier usage, but this also means wear patterns may not be immediately apparent. The risk lies in potential hidden corrosion in power steering hoses, brake components, and suspension linkages, which can degrade silently over time, particularly in the offside front area where severe corrosion was noted in prior MOTs. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the braking system, power steering components, and suspension. The recent advisories on brake imbalance and fluctuating rear service brakes indicate that the discs, pads, and calipers may require professional assessment for wear or binding. Listen for uneven braking performance, especially when applying pressure to the rear wheels, and check for any shuddering or pulsation during deceleration. The offside front brake disc and pad condition from the 2022 MOT failure is particularly concerning; visually inspect these components for signs of warping, cracking, or excessive thickness loss, and ensure they are aligned properly to prevent binding. The power steering system, particularly the corroded hoses and pipes, should be checked for leaks, fluid levels, and any resistance when turning the wheel, as corrosion can compromise steering efficiency and safety. Beyond the immediate concerns, the vehicle’s age and low mileage necessitate a thorough examination of the following: the oil leak, which could stem from worn seals or a failing oil pan gasket; the rear anti-roll bar wear, which may indicate suspension bush deterioration and could lead to uneven ride quality or handling issues; and the minor exhaust leak, which should be addressed to prevent emissions-related problems and potential fire hazards. Inspect the tyres for sidewall perishing, which is common in older vehicles left unused for extended periods, and verify the tread depth meets legal requirements. Given the vehicle’s history of standing, check for corrosion on the chassis, undercarriage, and any exposed metal components, as prolonged inactivity can accelerate rust formation. Additionally, test the parking brake for firmness and ensure the handbrake mechanism does not drag or bind when engaged. Finally, consider a professional fluid check, including brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant, as these fluids can degrade over time even with low mileage. If the vehicle has a service history, verify that all scheduled maintenance—such as timing belt replacement (if applicable) and fluid top-ups—has been recorded, as this will provide confidence in the vehicle’s long-term reliability.