2004 Vauxhall Movano 2.5L Diesel · AP04 ADZ

The most recent MOT, dated 10 July 2026, was passed but carried a number of advisories and two minor items, notably severely deteriorated constant‑velocity boots on both front inner drive‑shaft joints. The preceding test, just one day earlier, failed on several major points including a missing steering‑rack gaiter, a split outer drive‑shaft boot and an excessively worn off‑side front lower suspension arm ball joint. Over the past two years the pattern shows a mixture of recurring wear items – tyre sidewall perishing, CV‑boot degradation and corrosion – and occasional major failures that have not yet been rectified, indicating a maintenance trend that is currently unstable and leaning towards worsening unless the identified faults are addressed promptly. At 157,374 mi the van averages roughly 7,150 mi per annum, a usage rate that sits comfortably within the normal range for a 22‑year‑old commercial vehicle. The mileage does not suggest chronic high‑stress operation, but the age means that many components are well beyond their nominal service lives. Light annual mileage can mask underlying calendar‑related deterioration such as rubber hardening, metal corrosion and fluid breakdown, so the mechanical condition will be more a function of time‑based wear than of distance travelled. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the front drivetrain and steering assemblies. Inspect the CV boots on both inner and outer joints for oil seepage, cracked rubber and any contamination of the surrounding chassis; a leaking boot will eventually allow dirt ingress and can lead to joint failure, often signalled by a whining noise that varies with engine speed or a vibration under acceleration. The missing steering‑rack gaiter should be replaced and the rack inspected for excessive play or binding – a loose rack will produce a vague steering feel and may cause uneven tyre wear. The off‑side lower ball joint, flagged as excessively worn, should be checked for vertical and horizontal play; any clunk when the wheel is rocked or a shudder under braking points to imminent failure and warrants replacement. The front tyre sidewalls show early cracking; given the age of the rubber, replacement of both front tyres is advisable before the tread depth becomes a safety issue. Additional items to verify include the near‑side rear leaf‑spring shackle bracket and the subframe mounting area, both noted as corroded; visual inspection for rust, loose bolts and any movement of the subframe is essential, as structural corrosion can affect handling and load‑carrying capacity. The hazard‑warning switch, which failed a recent test, must be functional for road‑legal operation, and the windscreen washer system should be checked for adequate fluid delivery and pump operation. Because the vehicle has been standing for periods, a thorough battery load test, brake fluid replacement, and a check for any brake‑disc surface rust or seized calipers are prudent. Finally, ensure the headlamp lenses are clean and free of film, and that the oil leak noted in 2025 is not worsening – a fresh oil level check and a look for fresh oil spots under the engine will confirm the leak remains minor. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the van’s roadworthiness and the likely cost of bringing it to a reliable state.