2003 Ford Transit Connect 1.8L Diesel · DU03 GFZ

The vehicle shows a history of age-related degradation consistent with its low-mileage usage profile. In the most recent test in August 2024 at 108,200 miles, the tester identified a non-excessive oil leak and corroded bumper mountings, alongside perished offside rear tyres. This recurring issue with tyre cracking, which also appeared in the 2021, 2019, and 2018, suggests the vehicle sits for long periods, allowing the rubber to dry out despite the low annual mileage of just under five thousand miles. Structural integrity remains a primary concern for this Transit. Records from 2020 and 2021 document corrosion on the rear outer sills, which eventually required welding repairs noted in August 2022 at 89,579 miles. While the vehicle passed following these repairs, the presence of structural rust indicates a need for thorough underbody inspection. The suspension also shows visible wear; the 2023 failure due to severely deteriorated front suspension arm ball joint dust covers indicates that rubber components are failing due to age rather than high-mileage. Brake and lighting maintenance has been reactive. The vehicle failed in 2013 due to imbalanced brakes and thin pads, and a previous failure in 2015 highlighted a major exhaust leak and coolant leak. Recent advisories regarding inoperative registration plate lamps across multiple years suggest that minor electrical faults are only addressed when prompted by the tester. A buyer should verify the current state of the oil leak and ensure the previous sill repairs remain structurally sound free of new corrosion.