2004 Ford Ranger 2.5L Diesel · MA54 PBY

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance history shows a worsening trend regarding unresolved structural and mechanical degradation. While the most recent test in December 2023 at 149,212 miles resulted in a pass after an initial failure for an illegible registration plate, the underlying issues of chassis rust, radiator support corrosion, and steering box seepage have persisted across the last three testing cycles. This pattern indicates that the owner is addressing only immediate compliance failures rather than curing the root mechanical concerns. At 22 years old, the recorded 149,212 miles suggest the Ranger has averaged approximately 6,782 miles per year, which is consistent with light usage for a vehicle of this age. There is a significant gap in records between August 2022 and December 2023, during which the vehicle covered roughly 6,000 miles. The relatively low annual mileage reduces the wear on the drivetrain and engine, but the age of the vehicle makes the degradation of rubber components and metal integrity the primary areas of concern, rather than distance-based wear. A buyer must conduct a thorough in-person inspection of the chassis and radiator support area, as the tester has flagged recurring rust since 2021. The structural corrosion noted on the rear vehicle in 2021 requires close scrutiny to ensure it has not progressed to affecting structural rigidity. Mechanical attention should also be paid to the steering box for active leaks and the offside front lower shock absorber, which has been flagged for worn bushes in both 2022 and 2023. The history of worn tyres and ball joints in 2021 suggests the front suspension assembly is nearing the end of its service life and may require comprehensive replacement.