2004 Ford Transit 2.4L Diesel · KS53 YTK

The 2004 Ford Transit passed its most recent MOT on 28 April 2026 at 136,445 miles, but the test revealed multiple active advisories indicating a maintenance trend that is worsening rather than improving. The front brake discs are worn and pitted, the suspension arm ball joint has slight play, the propshaft bearing is loose, and corrosion has developed on a brake pipe—issues not present in the previous year’s test. The parking brake efficiency is barely acceptable, and an oil leak persists, suggesting cumulative wear is outpacing repairs. While the vehicle remains legally roadworthy, these defects point to deferred maintenance and increasing mechanical strain. The recorded mileage of 136,445 over 22 years equates to roughly 6,200 miles annually, which is typical for a commercial vehicle of this age. There are no sudden spikes in mileage between tests—gaps between MOTs are consistent at 12 months, with the 2023 to 2024 jump from 120,012 to 122,483 miles reflecting normal usage. The absence of defects in the April 2023 test confirms the vehicle was in reasonable condition at that point, but the deterioration since then, particularly in braking and suspension, suggests a pattern of neglect rather than sudden failure. A buyer must inspect the front brake discs and calipers for excessive wear or binding, as the recurring parking brake inefficiency and brake pipe corrosion indicate a compromised hydraulic system. The offside front suspension ball joint and propshaft bearing should be checked for play under load, as both have been flagged in consecutive tests. The body corrosion along the sills and steps, while not yet compromising structural rigidity, requires close examination for hidden rust penetration, especially given the vehicle’s age and exposure to road salt. The persistent oil leak from the front shock absorbers and the deteriorated registration plate suggest the vehicle has been operated with minimal attention to detail—any purchase should be preceded by a full suspension, brake, and underbody inspection by a qualified mechanic.