2004 Ford Transit 2.4L Diesel · ET53 LFH

Significant structural corrosion and suspension component wear represent the primary mechanical risks for this vehicle, following a critical failure in January 2025. While the most recent test on 29 April 2026 resulted in a pass with no defects, the history reveals a period of escalating deterioration where the nearside rear chassis was flagged with excessive corrosion to the extent that stability was impaired. This dangerous defect, alongside major failures regarding shock absorber fluid leaks and worn lower suspension arm bushes, indicates a recent period of significant mechanical decline that has since been addressed to meet the passing standard. The vehicle has covered 87,006 miles over its 22-year lifespan, averaging approximately 3,955 miles per year. This is a notably low annual mileage for a Ford Transit, which typically undergoes much higher utility usage. Such a low accumulation of miles can sometimes imply long periods of stationary use, which may contribute to the observed issues with chassis corrosion and the degradation of rubber components like suspension bushes and shock absorber seals. The relatively infrequent mileage means that while drivetrain wear may be lower than average, the vehicle has been subject to the environmental effects of age and potential moisture retention on the underbody. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the structural integrity of the rear chassis, specifically around the bump stop areas where corrosion was previously advised in 2022 and later escalated to a dangerous failure in 2025. During a test drive, it is essential to listen for any knocking or clunking sounds from the nearside rear, which could indicate that the shock absorber leak or the structural repairs have not fully resolved the issue. Furthermore, given the history of worn lower suspension arm bushes on both the nearside and offside fronts, any wandering sensation in the steering or uneven tyre wear should be closely monitored. The steering system should also be scrutinized for any play or vibration, following the 2022 advisory regarding the offside track rod end ball joint. On the road, look for any pulling to one side or a lack of precision in the steering response. While the recent 2026 pass suggests the immediate mechanical failures have been rectified, the transition from structural advisories to a dangerous failure highlights a pattern of metal degradation that requires careful physical inspection of the subframe and chassis mounting points to ensure the repairs are robust.