2004 Ford Transit 2.4L Diesel · RK04 CDX

Persistent structural corrosion and ongoing fluid leaks define the historical roadworthiness profile of this commercial vehicle, which most recently passed its MOT test on 23 June 2023 with minor defects and advisories before its official testing record stops. Across its multi-year testing history, the vehicle has demonstrated a clear pattern of structural degradation, including major failure items in 2018 for excessive lower body and chassis corrosion within prescribed mounting areas, alongside repeated advisories for structural rust, subframe corrosion, and chassis modifications in subsequent years. Engine oil leaks have also proven to be an ongoing issue, escalating to a major failure point in mid-2020 alongside dangerous tyre defects. While the vehicle successfully cleared its June 2023 inspection with minor wiper and mirror faults, an advisory for front subframe mounting corrosion, and oil misting on a rear shock absorber, no further test entries exist up to September 2026, indicating an unverified roadworthiness status for over three years. Accumulating 192,091 recorded miles over approximately 22 years represents an average usage rate of roughly 8,700 miles annually, which is typical for a light commercial vehicle of this age. However, commercial duties at this mileage point naturally impose heavy stress on structural mountings, driveline seals, and suspension components. The multi-year absence of recorded testing following its 2023 pass introduces notable uncertainty regarding how mechanical consumables and structural rust have progressed, as standing idle or running uninspected can compound corrosion on exposed steel structures and cause fluid seals to dry out and leak. Prospective buyers must focus their physical evaluation heavily on structural integrity and mechanical containment. A complete underbody inspection on a vehicle hoist is essential to assess the front subframe mountings, lower chassis rails, and floor pans. Because previous tests noted structural patch welding, body modifications, and severe corrosion within 30 centimetres of mountings, all historical repair work must be checked for structural soundess, correct welding standards, and active rust penetration. The lower engine, gearbox, and oil sump area should be checked thoroughly for fresh, dripping oil, given the history of recurring oil leak advisories and past test rejections for excessive fluid discharge. During a road test, evaluate the mechanical running gear and suspension for play or deterioration. Listen for heavy metallic knocking or dull thumps over bumps, which point to worn front subframe bushes or degraded mounting points. Assess the rear suspension closely for instability or excessive bouncing over crests, as oil misting on the nearside rear shock absorber indicates impending damper failure. Under heavy braking, feel for pedal judder or steering wheel pulsation that would indicate warped or heavily pitted front brake discs, and verify that the vehicle pulls up in a straight line without pulling to one side or dragging due to sticking calipers. Finally, closely examine all four tyres across their full tread width, checking for uneven shoulder wear or inner edge scrubbing caused by misaligned steering geometry or worn suspension joints.