2004 Volkswagen Transporter 2.5L Diesel · MD51 DUB

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance history shows a worsening trend regarding structural corrosion and component degradation. While the most recent test in April 2026 at 111,167 miles passed, it introduced multiple advisories for deteriorated brake hoses and corroded brake pipes. This represents a regression from the March 2024 failure where the vehicle was rejected due to a binding caliper and structural sill weakness, indicating that the owner is reacting to faults rather than performing proactive preventative maintenance. The recorded mileage of 111,167 miles is low for a 22-year-old transporter, averaging approximately 5,053 miles per year. The data shows consistent usage between 2023 and 2026, with the vehicle covering roughly 8,000 miles over that three-year period. However, the exceptionally low annual mileage often correlates with age-related degradation of rubber components and metalwork, which is evident in the recurring reports of corrosion on the exhaust, sill, and suspension arms noted across the inspection records. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the outer sills and suspension mounting points. The record flagged the offside rear outer sill as weakened by corrosion in 2024, and the rear suspension arms showed corrosion in April 2026. These structural issues suggest the vehicle is susceptible to rust that may eventually require significant welding. Furthermore, the recurring mention of corroded brake pipes covered in grease suggests that previous owners may have used grease to mask the extent of oxidation, which can hide deep pitting of the hydraulic lines. The braking system also requires close attention due to the 2024 failure for a binding offside front caliper and the subsequent 2026 advisories for deteriorated front brake hoses. The supplementary restraint system warning lamp fault recorded in early 2024 must be verified as rectified, as this was a critical safety failure. Given the history of tyres worn to inner edges in 2024, the wheel alignment should be checked to ensure that uneven wear is not causing premature failure of new tyres.