2009 Ford Transit Connect 1.8L Diesel · DN09 WHS

The most recent MOT on 29 April 2026 was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle met the statutory safety and emissions standards at that time. However, the MOT record shows a pattern of intermittent failures and recurring advisories over the past seven years, notably major exhaust leaks, headlamp aim failure, a failed upper stop lamp and an excessively worn rear anti‑roll‑bar ball joint in 2020, and repeated tyre perishing advisories. While the latest pass suggests that recent remedial work may have addressed the most serious faults, the persistence of similar advisories points to a maintenance trend that is improving in the short term but still exhibits underlying issues that require ongoing attention. At 105,367 miles recorded for a 2009 model, the vehicle averages roughly 6,200 miles per year, which is within the normal usage envelope for a light commercial van of this age. There are no obvious periods of high mileage accumulation that would accelerate wear, nor are there large gaps suggesting prolonged storage. The moderate annual mileage means that wear on consumables such as brakes, suspension bushings and tyres should be consistent with age rather than extreme use, but the vehicle’s age means that time‑related degradation of rubber, fluids and corrosion‑prone components is likely to be a factor. Prospective buyers should give particular focus to the exhaust system, which has been flagged for both central and rear leaks on several occasions and was the cause of a failed MOT in February 2024. Inspect the exhaust manifold, gaskets, pipe joints and muffler for signs of rust, cracks or loose clamps, and listen for a hissing or ticking noise at idle and under acceleration. A leaking exhaust can allow fumes into the cabin, increase fuel consumption and may affect the emissions test. The headlamp on the off‑side was recorded as badly mis‑aimed in 2024; verify that both headlights illuminate the road symmetrically and replace or realign the unit if the beam is low or spreads unevenly, as poor aim reduces night‑time visibility and can be a safety hazard. The advisory for slight brake binding on the off‑side rear persists; during a test drive feel for any pull to one side, a shuddering sensation when applying the brakes, or uneven pedal travel, and have a mechanic check the caliper pistons, slide pins and brake disc condition. Tyres on both rear wheels have repeatedly been noted as slightly damaged, cracked or perishing, which is typical for ageing rubber even at modest mileage; examine the sidewalls for dry‑rot, bulges or tread edge cracking, and ensure the tread depth is well above the legal minimum. The 2020 failure for an excessively worn rear anti‑roll‑bar ball joint suggests that the rear suspension bushings may be approaching the end of their service life; listen for clunking noises when the vehicle is driven over bumps and have the ball joint and associated bushings inspected for play or corrosion. In addition to the items above, a visual inspection of the chassis and cab for surface rust, especially around mounting points, is advisable given the advisory for corrosion within 30 cm of a mounting. Check the brake pipe for signs of corrosion or grease buildup, as a compromised pipe can lead to soft pedal feel or brake fade. Verify the condition of the 12 V battery, which at 17 years old is likely to be nearing the end of its serviceable life; a load test or voltage check can identify a weak cell before it fails. Finally, confirm that the service book shows regular oil, filter and coolant changes at the manufacturer’s intervals, and consider a full fluid flush (engine oil, transmission, brake and coolant) if the records are incomplete, as fluid degradation over time can affect engine and drivetrain reliability.