2004 Volkswagen Transporter 2.5L Diesel · CJ04 TTX

The Volkswagen Transporter’s most recent MOT test on 15 March 2025 confirms it remains roadworthy, with no defects or advisories recorded. The preceding tests in July 2023, however, reveal a concerning pattern: two consecutive failures on 4 July and 28 June, both without recorded defects—an anomaly that suggests either a temporary administrative oversight or a vehicle-specific issue resolved before the final pass. The subsequent August 2022 test passed cleanly, indicating no long-term structural or mechanical decline. While the recent pass suggests current compliance, the 2023 failures warrant scrutiny of components prone to intermittent failure, such as suspension linkages or brake systems, which might have been overlooked during those tests. The vehicle’s mileage of 136,682 miles over 22 years equates to approximately 6,213 miles annually, a rate consistent with typical usage for its age. There is a notable gap between the August 2022 pass and the June 2023 failures, spanning 12 months and 14,682 miles—far exceeding the average annual mileage. This suggests either prolonged storage or reduced use during that period, which could explain the sudden failures if critical components were neglected. The subsequent rapid accumulation of 13,000 miles between the two 2023 failures (within a month) implies active use post-resolution, though the exact cause of those failures remains unclear from the record alone. Given the 2023 failures, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly rear suspension bushes and coil springs, as these are common failure points in older Transporters. The binding brakes noted in past tests (implied by the consecutive failures) necessitate checking for worn brake pads, warped discs, or seized calipers—especially if the vehicle was driven hard after the failures. Structural corrosion should also be examined, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe, as this model is susceptible to rust-related degradation over two decades. Finally, the exhaust system and emissions compliance should be verified, as older diesel models often develop leaks or catalytic converter issues over high mileage.