1997 Volkswagen Transporter 2.5L Diesel · P798 BAP
1997 Volkswagen Transporter (2.5L, diesel). First registered 01 Mar 1997. Recorded mileage 198,164 miles. MOT valid until 22 Aug 2027. Taxed until 01 Sept 2027.
- Make & Model
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER
- Year / Origin
- 1997 · Preston
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 22 Aug 2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Sept 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 198,164 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- DIESEL · 2.5L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
P798 BAP Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 24/08/2026
- 198,164 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 3 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (10 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
P798 BAP MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 1997 Volkswagen Transporter (P798 BAP) between June 2022 and August 2026.
The record contains 5 passes and 0 failures.
The record shows no MOT failures, although 14 advisory notices note items to monitor.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Brakes (10 issues), Tyres (2 issues), Bodywork (1 issue), Exhaust & Emissions (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 14 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
P798 BAP Mileage History
- 22/06/2022192,520 mi
- 24/08/2023193,080 mi+560 mi
- 17/08/2024194,424 mi+1,344 mi
- 19/08/2025196,517 mi+2,093 mi
- 24/08/2026198,164 mi+1,647 mi
Average of roughly 1,353 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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MOT Roadworthiness: Excellent
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with significant caution. While
A primary focus for any buyer should be the underside of the vehicle. The MOT history shows a recurring issue with brake pipe corrosion (noted in 2022, 2025, and 2026), which suggests that while parts are being replaced, the underlying issue of moisture or salt ingress remains a concern. You should ask for evidence of any recent brake system overhaul.
Given the 2022 advisory regarding sill corrosion, it is vital to inspect the vehicle's structural integrity closely. Negotiate on the basis of potential future welding requirements. Additionally, check the service history for oil changes, as high-mileage 2.5L diesel engines require strict maintenance to remain viable.
Running costs for this 1997 Transporter will be influenced by its age and high mileage. As a 2.5L diesel, fuel economy will be moderate compared to modern vans, and insurance groups for older commercial vehicles can vary significantly based on the driver's profile.
Maintenance costs are likely to be higher than average due to the age of the vehicle. The recent MOT history indicates that consumables like brake discs and exhaust components are reaching the end of their service life. Expect regular expenditures on suspension, braking systems, and potential rust prevention treatments.
First, inspect the brake system thoroughly. The MOT records show multiple instances of corroded brake pipes (nearside and offside, front and rear) in 2022, 2025, and 2026. Ensure that the pipes are not just cleaned of grease, as noted in previous advisories, but are actually in good condition.
Second, examine the sills and lower bodywork. The 2022 MOT recorded corrosion to the nearside sill. Even if it did not reduce structural rigidity at that time, you must check for any progression of this rust. Finally, inspect the exhaust system, as the 2026 MOT noted leaks in multiple places, and check the condition of the brake discs for pitting or scoring as highlighted in the most recent report.
This 2.5L diesel Volkswagen Transporter has covered 198,164 miles as of August 2026. The MOT history shows a consistent pattern of brake pipe corrosion across multiple years and a recorded instance of sill corrosion in 2022. While it has passed its most recent test, the presence of an exhaust leak and worn brake discs in the latest inspection suggests ongoing maintenance requirements.
No aggregate reliability data is available for this specific Volkswagen Transporter model to provide a comparative benchmark.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
Vehicle & Plate History
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