2004 Ford Transit Connect 1.8L Diesel · BA04 FHM

The most recent MOT inspection on 2 September 2025 resulted in a clean pass with no recorded defects, which is a positive indicator for the vehicle's current roadworthiness. Looking at the broader maintenance history, the trend appears to be improving. Earlier tests showed failures and advisories related to wheel bearings, tyre wear, and brake pipe corrosion, but the absence of these issues in the most recent test suggests that previous mechanical faults have been addressed. However, the advisory from 2024 regarding a non-excessive central front oil leak should be monitored to ensure it does not escalate into a significant leak. With 120,358 miles recorded over approximately 22 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 5,471 miles per year. This is notably low for a commercial vehicle of this type, suggesting it has not been subjected to heavy-duty, high-frequency commercial use. While this lower mileage generally implies less wear on the engine, gearbox, and drivetrain components, it also carries the risk of age-related degradation due to infrequent use. Vehicles that sit idle for long periods are prone to issues such as fluid contamination, rubber component perishing, and corrosion in areas that are not regularly cleaned by road spray. During your test drive, pay close attention to the front end of the vehicle to address the previous oil leak advisory and the history of wheel bearing play. Listen for any rhythmic humming or grinding noises from the front wheels, which could indicate a recurring bearing issue, and check for any signs of fresh oil weeping around the engine sump or front seals. Given the previous advisories regarding brake pipe corrosion and tyre wear, you should visually inspect the brake lines for any signs of heavy oxidation and check the tyres for uneven wear patterns or sidewall cracking, which would indicate perishing from age rather than just tread depth. Because this is a low-mileage, older vehicle, a thorough physical inspection is essential. Check the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion or pitting, which can occur if the vehicle has been standing, and ensure the calipers are not binding. Inspect all suspension bushes and rubber mounts for signs of cracking or perishing. It is also vital to verify the service history to confirm that oil, coolant, and brake fluids have been changed based on time intervals rather than just mileage, as chemical degradation occurs regardless of distance travelled. Finally, check the condition of the battery and the integrity of the exhaust system to ensure no structural corrosion has developed during periods of inactivity.