2004 Ford Ranger 2.5L Diesel · GD04 EEM

A pattern of structural and chassis corrosion runs through the MOT history of this 2004 Ford Ranger, suggesting the vehicle should be approached with caution regarding its long-term integrity. The most recent recorded activity on 14 November 2025 saw the vehicle pass on retest after addressing mandatory lighting failures affecting both front position lamps and the rear fog lamp, but the same visit logged advisories for slight corrosion on the rear brake hose ferrule, corrosion on the rear brake pipe, detectable free play in the steering box, corrosion to the rear leaf springs, and corrosion to the front radiator support cross member. This follows a 2024 pass that noted a crazed headlamp lens on both sides, an exhaust gas leak in various places, a loose exhaust silencer, and play in the nearside front steering linkage idler. The 2023 test introduced advisories for corrosion to the front chassis legs, play in both steering drop arms, a deteriorating inner CV joint boot on the nearside front driveshaft, and a continuing exhaust leak. By the 2022 pass, the corrosion picture had expanded to both front subframe mounting prescribed areas, alongside a non-excessive oil leak and a deteriorating exhaust system. The cumulative picture across four consecutive test cycles is one of advancing corrosion across multiple structural locations, persistent steering wear, and chronic exhaust deterioration. Recorded mileage stands at 128,415 miles across approximately 22 years of age, which equates to an annual accumulation of around 5,837 miles and represents a notably low rate of travel for a working pickup of this vintage. The gaps in testing history, with no recorded MOT activity prior to February 2021, suggest this Ranger may have spent considerable periods either off the road, exempt from testing in its earlier years, or simply not presented for test. Low annual mileage of this nature can reduce wear on high-mileage consumables such as brake friction material and engine internals, but it also tends to accelerate deterioration of rubber components, promote corrosion through infrequent use, and allow standing oil leaks to develop into persistent seepage from areas such as the front differential and engine seals, both of which appear in the advisory record. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the steering and front suspension assemblies, as the record flags free play in the steering box, idler play, drop arm wear, and a fractured anti-roll bar linkage that resulted in a dangerous defect at the 2021 test. On a road test, listen for clonking or knocking from the front end over uneven surfaces, particularly over speed bumps and potholes, and feel for any vagueness, sloppiness, or delayed response in the steering that could indicate the advisories have progressed beyond their advisory stage. With the vehicle stationary and the engine off, rock each front wheel by hand at the three and nine o'clock positions to detect any bearing or linkage play, and visually inspect the anti-roll bar links, drop arms, and idler for any signs of grease, splitting boots, or physical movement. A binding brake test on a low-speed approach is also worthwhile, given the 2021 major failure for both front service brakes excessively binding, which may suggest seized caliper slide pins or corroded piston mechanisms, both common on vehicles that see light, stop-start use rather than sustained driving. The chassis and underbody corrosion pattern demands a physical inspection on a ramp or over a pit before purchase, as the advisories span the front chassis legs, both front subframe mounting areas, the rear leaf springs, and the front radiator support cross member. On test, check for uneven ride height at the rear, which could indicate failed leaf spring eyes or worn shackle pins and bushes, both of which have been flagged, and listen for any exhaust ticking, popping, or drone that would confirm the chronic leaks and deteriorating system noted since 2021. The brake lines and hoses warrant close examination for live rust, particularly along the rear pipe noted as corroded in 2025, and the front inner CV joint boot noted as severely deteriorated should be inspected for fresh grease loss or splits, as a failed boot will rapidly destroy the joint. Finally, verify all exterior lighting functions, including front position lamps and the rear fog lamp, as these were the cause of the only failed items on the most recent test and may indicate bulb holder corrosion or wiring faults typical of a vehicle of this age.