1996 Ford Transit 2.5L Diesel · N35 WJB

The vehicle presents a stable roadworthiness profile with a clear trend of improvement over the last four years. The most recent test on 21 July 2025 at 96,803 miles passed with no recorded defects, indicating that previous mechanical concerns have been addressed. This transition from multiple advisories in 2021 to clean sheets suggests a proactive approach to maintenance by recent owners. The mileage pattern is exceptionally low for a thirty-year-old commercial, averaging approximately 3,200 miles per year. Between July 2021 and July 2025, the vehicle covered only 4,202 miles, with a gap of just 468 miles between the 2024 and 2025 tests. While low-mileage usage often reduces mechanical wear on the engine and drivetrain, it increases the risk of dry rot in rubber components and seal degradation due to long periods of inactivity. A buyer should specifically inspect the engine bay for signs of the recurring oil leak noted in 2021 and 2023. Although the records describe these as not excessive, the persistent nature of the fault suggests aging gaskets or seals that may require further monitoring. The 2021 advisory regarding the nearside front wheel bearing should also be verified through a physical check to ensure the play has not returned since the component was last serviced. Given the age of this Transit, a thorough inspection of the structural integrity and chassis for corrosion is essential. The MOT history does not explicitly flag structural issues, but on vehicles of this era, rust often becomes the primary failure point regardless of low mileage. Check the suspension bushes and tyres for per or cracking, as the low annual mileage can lead to material fatigue and hardening that tread depth alone will not reveal.