2017 Volkswagen Transporter 2.0L Diesel · BA02 GER

The most recent MOT on 17 February 2026 was passed, but it carried an advisory that both rear tyres were worn close to the legal limit and showing edge wear. Over the past three years the record shows a pattern of serious safety concerns: a dangerous failure for an off‑side front track‑rod end ball joint in February 2024, followed a year later by a dangerous failure for a near‑side front tyre with tread below 1.6 mm, and repeated advisories about front and rear tyre condition. The trend is therefore not improving; rather it indicates that critical wear items have been recurring and that the vehicle may not have received the necessary remedial work after the earlier failures. At nine years old the van has only 52,424 mi on the clock, which works out to roughly 5,800 mi per annum – well below the typical usage for a commercial‑type vehicle. Such low annual mileage often points to long periods of inactivity or very light duty. While low mileage reduces cumulative wear on engine and drivetrain components, it also raises the likelihood of age‑related degradation: rubber hardening in tyres, battery electrolyte loss, seal drying, and corrosion on suspension and chassis members that have been standing for extended periods. When you inspect the vehicle, give the tyre set the most thorough examination. Verify the tread depth on all four wheels with a micrometre gauge, looking for any reading below 1.6 mm and checking the sidewalls for cracking, bulging or perishing, especially on the near‑side rear where damage was previously noted. Examine the tyre age via the DOT code; any tyre older than six years should be considered for replacement regardless of tread. On a short test drive listen for any clunk or knock when steering through corners, which could indicate the previously flagged front track‑rod end ball joint or worn suspension bushes. Check for play in the steering rack by holding the wheel at the 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock positions and noting any excessive movement. Also inspect the rear suspension for worn bushings or uneven tyre wear that might suggest mis‑alignment. Given the vehicle’s age and low usage, also assess the condition of the 12 V battery, ensuring it holds charge and shows no signs of leakage. Inspect the brake discs and pads for surface rust, glazing or uneven wear, and verify that the calipers move freely without binding. Look under the chassis for any rust on the sub‑frame, suspension mounting points and exhaust system, and check that all engine covers and under‑tray panels are removed or opened to allow a visual check of the wiring, hoses and coolant hoses for cracks or brittleness. Finally, confirm that the service book contains recent oil, filter and fluid changes in line with the manufacturer’s time‑based intervals, as fluids can degrade even when the vehicle is not driven heavily. Addressing these points will give you a clear picture of whether the van is mechanically sound or requires significant remedial work before it can be considered a reliable purchase.