2005 Ford Transit Connect 1.8L Diesel · EN05 AMK

The vehicle presents a worsening maintenance profile, with the most recent MOT test in October 2023 at 150,349 miles revealing significant structural concerns. While the vehicle has consistently passed its inspections, the nature of the advisories has shifted from minor consumable wear to more serious issues regarding the vehicle's integrity. The presence of corrosion on the inner and outer sills and the front to rear body structure suggests that the underlying metalwork is degrading, which is a common but critical concern for a vehicle of this age. The mileage accumulation is consistent with a commercial vehicle of this age, averaging roughly 7,159 miles per year. The record shows steady usage, moving from 137,428 miles in October 2022 to 150,349 miles in October 2023. This steady progression indicates the vehicle has not been sitting idle for long periods, but the increasing frequency of mechanical advisories suggests that the cost of maintaining its roadworthiness may increase as components reach the end of their service life. A prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the chassis and sills to determine the depth of the reported corrosion. The history shows a persistent trend of brake pipe corrosion and suspension component wear, specifically regarding anti-roll bar bushes and ball joints, which have appeared in various forms since at least 2018. The October 2023 report of an oil leak, combined with previous mentions of power steering rack leaks in 2018, necessitates a close examination of the engine bay and underbody for active fluid loss. The braking system also requires careful scrutiny. The records show a recurring pattern of pitted brake discs, worn pads, and corroded brake pipes dating back several years. While these are often addressed to pass the test, the repeated mentions of fluctuating service brakes and corroded lines suggest that the braking hardware is frequently at the limit of its condition. Given the recent advisory for a worn offside rear tyre, a buyer should also check the overall condition of all consumables, including suspension bushes and CV boots, which have been flagged intermittently throughout the vehicle's history.