2005 Volkswagen Transporter 2.5L Diesel · WA05 AAN

The most recent MOT, conducted on 31 July 2023 at 158,660 miles , passed but revealed a concerning cluster of recurring faults that suggest ongoing neglect rather than a stable maintenance history. The vehicle failed just six days earlier on 25 July 2023 at 158,639 miles , with identical issues—including corroded/recontaminated brake pipes , severely deteriorated CV boot , and worn suspension components —indicating these problems were not addressed between tests. While the September 2023 pass shows no new critical failures, the persistence of binding or deteriorating brake systems , worn suspension bushes , and edge-worn tyres implies a pattern of deferred repairs. The anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover failure (a minor but preventable issue) and oil-misted shock absorbers further signal that routine checks have been overlooked, raising questions about whether the vehicle has been driven hard or simply poorly maintained. The mileage progression— 158,505 miles in August 2022 to 158,660 miles in July 2023 —shows an average annual run of just 1,155 miles , well below the typical 7,555 miles/year for its age. This suggests either light commercial use or prolonged periods of inactivity, which may have contributed to corrosion (e.g., the rear brake pipe) and rubber degradation (e.g., CV boot, brake hoses). The six-day gap between the fail and pass at nearly identical mileages is unusual and may indicate the owner rushed repairs to meet the test deadline rather than addressing underlying issues systematically. Such low annual mileage, combined with recurring faults, often points to a vehicle that has been intermittently used or stored unsafely , accelerating wear on seals, hoses, and suspension components. A prospective buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the brake system , particularly the rear pipe corrosion and front hose deterioration , as these could lead to fluid loss or failure. The CV joint boot is critically compromised—if not replaced, it risks drivetrain contamination and premature joint failure. Suspension components, including the worn arm bush and oil-misted shock absorbers , should be checked for excessive play or leaks , as these affect handling and safety. Tyres remain a weak point; the edge wear on the offside front suggests alignment issues or underinflation, while the near-legal tread demands immediate replacement. Finally, the anti-roll bar ball joint —though minor—should be inspected for looseness or wear , as this can compromise cornering stability. Given the three-year gap since the last MOT record provided, a full service history and recent pre-purchase inspection are strongly advised.