2002 Ford Transit 2.4L Diesel · EA52 ARX

The most recent MOT on 10 July 2024 recorded a pass at 145 845 miles, but the tester flagged several advisories: front registration plate deterioration, defective wiper blades on both sides, rear shock absorbers with light oil misting, and corrosion of the integral body structure that does not yet compromise rigidity. This outcome follows a failure only 39 days earlier on 1 May 2024 at 145 831 miles, where the vehicle showed brake efficiency failures, parking brake inefficiency, exhaust emissions above the manufacturer’s limit, and significant structural corrosion at the sill inner and outer. The rapid correction from a comprehensive failure to a pass with minor advisories indicates a stabilising maintenance trend, though underlying wear in the braking and suspension systems remains evident. Mileage accumulation shows a clear pattern of heavy early use followed by extended periods of low activity. Between August 2007 (83 236 miles) and February 2008 (104 690 miles) the vehicle added roughly 21 k miles, yet the next ten‑year span from 2008 to 2018 produced no MOT entries, and the 2023 tests at 145 175 miles represent only a 629‑mile increase over a decade. The final 2024 entries added just 170 miles, suggesting the vehicle has been stored or lightly used for most of its later life. The MOT record is therefore relatively recent—only about two years old as of 28 July 2026—providing a current snapshot of the vehicle’s condition. A prospective buyer should inspect the brake system closely: test for binding rear brakes, verify service and parking brake efficiency, and check for any imbalance across the axle. Suspension components merit attention, particularly the rear shock absorbers for oil misting and the front suspension arm bushes and track rod ends for excessive play. Structural corrosion is a concern; examine the sill inner and outer panels for rust that may have reduced rigidity, even if the latest test notes no significant loss. Visual checks should include the registration plate condition, wiper blade operation, horn functionality, direction indicator operation, reserve lights, and tyre wear—especially the rear tyre that showed cracking in 2023. Finally, confirm that exhaust emissions are within limits and that the integral body structure shows no signs of active corrosion beyond the recorded advisories. A thorough pre‑purchase inspection of these areas will reveal whether the vehicle’s current roadworthiness can be maintained or if further repairs are required.