2003 Ford Transit Connect 1.8L Diesel · ET03 RBF

The 2003 Ford Transit Connect presents a stable roadworthiness trend, with the most recent test on 16 May 2025 at 169,457 miles returning a pass and no defects recorded. Prior annual tests in May 2024 and April 2023 also achieved passes with no advisories, indicating the vehicle has entered a clean test cycle over the last three years. The maintenance record shows no worsening mechanical faults and no outstanding structural or consumable concerns flagged by testers. Recorded mileage stands at 169,457 against an approximate 23-year lifespan, equating to roughly 7,368 miles per year which is typical for this age of light commercial vehicle. The odometer advanced from 156,907 at the April 2023 failure to 156,939 the next day on the pass, then to 162,946 by May 2024 and 169,457 by May 2025, showing consistent low annual use with no rapid accumulation or unexplained gaps. The DVSA data is sparse in fault detail, with every recorded test showing no defects, so the history offers little evidence of neglected upkeep beyond the two same-day fail-pass pairs in 2023 and 2024. The repeated fail-then-pass pattern on 24 and 25 April 2023 and on 17 May 2024, both with no defects logged, suggests administrative or presentation issues at initial testing rather than mechanical rejection, though a buyer should confirm no latent faults were cleared without rectification. Given the clean advisory record, the buyer should still physically inspect suspension bushes, coil springs, brake discs and calipers for age-related wear, and examine chassis and sills for corrosion typical of a 23-year-old Ford. A pre-purchase inspection should prioritise structural integrity checks beneath the body and around mounting points, as MOT pass with no advisories does not guarantee absence of developing rust. Verify service history independently, since the MOT alone shows no consumable replacements and the low mileage may mask long stationary periods affecting seals and brake condition.