2001 FIAT DUCATO2.8L Diesel

The vehicle's roadworthiness shows a concerning downward trend regarding structural integrity and corrosion. While the 2025-05-23 test at 40,152 miles resulted in a pass, the tester identified significant issues including corroded brake pipes covered in grease and underbody corrosion at both the front and rear. This follows a history of progressive degradation, moving from minor exhaust issues in 2010 and 2015 to more serious structural concerns in recent years. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 25-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 1,600 miles per year. However, the record shows significant gaps in testing history. There is a notable nine-year void between the March 2016 test and the May 2025 test, during which the vehicle covered only 187 miles. This pattern of long periods of inactivity suggests the van has spent much of its life stationary, which often accelerates the degradation of rubber components, seals, and metal surfaces due to moisture retention and lack of use. A prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the chassis and subframes. The recurring mentions of corrosion, specifically the offside front crossmember in 2012 and the widespread underbody corrosion noted in 2025, indicate a high risk of structural failure. The grease found on the brake pipes in the most recent test is a red flag, as it is often used to mask the appearance of weeping or corroded lines. Mechanical attention should also be directed toward the wheel bearings and suspension. The 2015 failure revealed excessive play in all four wheel bearings, and the 2007 record noted a leaking nearside rear shock absorber. Given the low mileage and long periods of standing, the buyer should check for seized calipers, perished suspension bushes, and the integrity of all fluid-carrying lines to ensure the vehicle is truly fit for purpose.