2006 Ford Transit Connect 1.8L Diesel · FM06 AAV

The most recent MOT on 8 July 2026 was a pass, albeit with advisories concerning the rear tyres and general under‑body corrosion. This follows a failure recorded just weeks earlier on 30 June 2026 where major corrosion was noted on the rear suspension spring mounting and the nearside front seat‑belt anchorage. Prior to that the vehicle passed in June 2025 with no defects, and the 2024 and 2023 tests each recorded only minor advisories. Overall the maintenance trend appears to be stabilising – the major corrosion that caused the failure has not re‑appeared as a failure, but the persistence of corrosion‑related advisories suggests that the under‑body condition remains a concern that should be monitored closely. At 88 203 miles for a 20‑year‑old 2006 Ford Transit Connect the average annual mileage is roughly 4 400 mi, well below the typical 8‑10 000 mi per year for a commercial vehicle. Such low utilisation often points to periods of infrequent use or prolonged storage, which can accelerate rubber perishing, battery sulphation and rust formation on chassis members that are not regularly driven to shed moisture. The modest mileage means the engine, transmission and drivetrain are unlikely to be heavily worn, but the age‑related wear of seals, bushings and corrosion‑prone areas will be more pronounced than mileage alone would suggest. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the rear tyres, which have been flagged as “slightly damaged/cracking or perishing”. Inspect the sidewalls for dry rot, cracks, and any bulges, and verify that the tread depth exceeds 3 mm across the width. During a test drive listen for any thumping or vibration that may indicate tyre separation or uneven wear, and check that the vehicle tracks straight without pulling to either side, which could reveal hidden tyre or suspension issues. The rear suspension spring mounting on the off‑side was previously deemed excessively corroded; examine the leaf‑spring mounts, surrounding sill plates and any visible chassis sections for rust, holes or flaking paint, and feel for any excessive play when the rear wheels are rocked. The nearside front seat‑belt anchorage also showed significant corrosion, so the anchorage points should be inspected for structural integrity and the seat‑belt mechanism should operate smoothly without fraying or excessive movement. Beyond the tyre and corrosion items, verify the condition of the front outer CV boot that was noted to be leaking; look for grease splatter around the joint and test for any clicking or shudder when turning at low speed, which would indicate joint wear. Check the overall under‑body for further rust, especially around the sills and mounting points, and ensure that any corrosion has been treated or that the affected panels are sound. Given the vehicle’s age and likely periods of inactivity, have the 12 V battery load‑tested, confirm that the brake discs are free of deep rust pitting and that the calipers move freely, and ask for evidence of recent fluid changes – engine oil, brake fluid and coolant should be replaced at least every two to three years regardless of mileage. A full service history and any receipts for rust‑treatment or suspension repairs will give additional confidence that the vehicle has been kept in a roadworthy condition despite its low mileage.