2002 Ford Transit 2.4L Diesel · DX02 AUF

The most recent MOT, carried out on 4 February 2025, was passed but returned a series of advisories covering the nearside front inner tyre, brake pads and disc, and both rear anti‑roll‑bar bushings. Over the last five years the vehicle has shown a pattern of recurring minor defects – notably a corroded nearside front brake pipe that has persisted since 2023, progressive front‑brake disc wear and intermittent tyre wear warnings – but no major failures have been recorded. The trend can be described as broadly stable; the vehicle is being kept road‑legal, yet several wear items are approaching the point where corrective work will be required to avoid future failures. At 170 658 miles the van averages roughly 7 100 miles per year, which is typical for a 2002 model. The mileage does not suggest any periods of excessive short‑term use, but the age of the chassis means many components have accumulated a high calendar life in addition to the distance travelled. Consequently, wear items such as bushings, seals and brake components are likely to be more a function of time than pure mileage, and the relatively moderate annual usage does not offset the inevitable degradation associated with a 24‑year‑old vehicle. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front braking system. Inspect the nearside front brake pipe for rust, pitting or any signs of fluid leakage, and verify that the brake fluid is clear and has been changed within the last two years. The front brake pads are already thin and the disc shows pitting; listen for any squeal or pulsation under braking and feel for a soft or spongy pedal, which would indicate that the pads or disc may need replacement soon. The nearside front inner tyre was flagged as close to the legal limit in the latest test – check tread depth across the whole tyre, look for uneven wear that could point to mis‑alignment or worn suspension components, and verify that the sidewalls are free of age‑related cracking. Beyond the brakes, examine the rear anti‑roll‑bar bushings for play or excessive movement, and listen for clunking when the vehicle is driven over bumps, which would suggest bushings are nearing the end of their service life. The off‑side rear shock absorber showed a light oil mist in 2021; a visual inspection for oil leakage and a test‑drive for a soft or uneven rear ride will reveal if the dampers need attention. Check the condition of the nearside front step and the front registration plate for corrosion that could worsen, and inspect the off‑side seat‑belt webbing for fraying. Given the vehicle’s age, also assess the 12 V battery’s cranking performance, the condition of the coolant and gearbox oils (which may have degraded despite mileage), and the overall integrity of the bodywork for any hidden rust, especially around wheel arches and under‑body panels. A thorough visual inspection combined with a careful test drive should reveal whether the van’s remaining service life justifies its price.