2003 Volkswagen Transporter 2.5L Diesel · LL03 CCN

A recurring pattern of oil leakage combined with progressive wear on consumables and minor lighting defects dominates the recorded MOT history of this 2003 Volkswagen Transporter, painting a picture of an ageing commercial vehicle accumulating age-related issues rather than suffering from any single catastrophic failure. The most recent test on 11 July 2026 returned a pass with advisories flagging an oil leak (described as not excessive) and an offside rear inner tyre at or near the legal limit. This continues a trend established over the preceding three years: an identical oil leak advisory appeared at the 2025 test, while the 2024 cycle included both a passed and a failed assessment on the same date, the failure attributed to a non-functioning nearside front dipped-beam headlamp and an offside rear position lamp. Together these records indicate a vehicle that remains fundamentally roadworthy year on year but is showing the kind of incremental deterioration typical of high-mileage vans of its vintage. With 247,021 miles accumulated across approximately 23 years, the Transporter averages around 10,740 miles per year, which sits broadly in line with expectations for a working van of this type. There are no extended gaps in the testing record suggestive of a prolonged period off the road, meaning the mileage figure is likely to be a reasonable reflection of consistent use. The relatively even annual accumulation, rather than any sudden spike, implies a steady working life rather than one punctuated by heavy single-trip demands, although the absolute mileage figure itself places considerable wear on the engine, gearbox, clutch, suspension and braking components by this stage of the vehicle's life. For a prospective buyer, the principal mechanical items to investigate on inspection centre on the persistent oil leak advisory noted in both 2025 and 2026. On a cold start, observe whether there is any visible misting or fresh seepage around the engine sump, cam chain cover, or rear main seal area, and check underneath the vehicle for fresh drips on the driveway or workshop floor. The steering rack free play detected at the 2024 test is also worth monitoring: with the engine running and the vehicle stationary, gently turn the wheel from lock to lock and listen for any clonking or knocking, and during a test drive pay particular attention to any vagueness, sloppiness, or rattle through the steering column, particularly over uneven surfaces. Should the steering feel looser than expected or if there is any visible movement at the inner track rod or gaiter, the rack may now be approaching the end of its service life. The brake components flagged in 2023, when both front discs were recorded as worn though not excessively, warrant close attention at this accumulated mileage, given that another two and a half years of use has elapsed since that advisory. During a test drive, listen for any grinding, scraping, or squealing from the front brakes under moderate pedal pressure, and feel for any judder or vibration through the steering wheel under braking, which would indicate disc warping. The front exhaust minor leak advisory from 2024 should also be checked by running the engine from cold and listening for any ticking or hissing from the front pipe and manifold joint area, as exhaust leaks tend to worsen over time. Finally, given the vehicle's age and mileage, a thorough inspection of the underside for corrosion on the suspension arms, brake pipes, fuel lines and subframe mounting points would be prudent, as these are common failure areas on T4-era Transporters of this age and are not always captured in MOT advisories until they become acute.