1998 Ford Transit 2.5L Diesel · S431 CBD
1998 Ford Transit (2.5L, diesel). First registered 06/08/1998. Recorded mileage 180,561 miles. MOT status: Expired.
- Make & Model
- FORD TRANSIT
- Year / Origin
- 1998 · Glasgow
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 28/05/2025
- Road Tax
- Untaxed (03/10/2023)
- Recorded Mileage
- 180,561 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- Diesel · 2.5L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- Diesel
- Year
- 1998
- Engine
- 2496cc
S431 CBD Key Findings
- 3 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 30/05/2024
- 180,561 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 6 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (7 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
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.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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S431 CBD Mileage History
- 07/04/2023178,341 mi
- 30/05/2024180,561 mi+2,220 mi
- 30/05/2024180,561 mi
Average of roughly 1,935 miles per year across 3 recorded odometer readings.
S431 CBD MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
3 MOT tests are recorded for this 1998 Ford Transit (S431 CBD) between April 2023 and May 2024.
The record contains 2 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 30 May 2024 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Brakes (7 issues), Lighting (6 issues), Tyres (2 issues). 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.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with extreme caution. While the Transit is a workhorse, this specific example shows significant structural concerns and recurring mechanical issues that make it a high-risk purchase.
The primary concern for any buyer must be a structural inspection. The history shows multiple failures for 'inadequate repairs' affecting strength and safety, as well as corrosion near body mountings. You must have a professional welder inspect the chassis for hidden rust and ensure that previous repairs are not just cosmetic but structural.
Mechanically, pay close attention to the braking system. The MOT records repeatedly mention corroded brake pipes, binding brakes, and seized valves. Ask the owner for a full service history to see if these have been replaced or merely noted. Furthermore, the persistent oil leak mentioned in multiple tests should be diagnosed to determine if it is a simple gasket or a major failure.
As an older 2.5L diesel, fuel economy will be modest compared to modern standards, likely averaging 24-30 mpg depending on load. Tax is generally low for a vehicle of this age, but insurance can vary significantly based on your profile.
Maintenance costs are likely to be high due to the age and mileage. Expect frequent spend on suspension components and brake wear parts. Budget an annual running cost of approximately £1,200-£1,500, accounting for fuel, tax, and inevitable repairs.
Focus heavily on the underbody and braking system. The MOT history highlights a pattern of corroded brake pipes across the axle and crossmember; check for any thinning metal or weeping joints. Also inspect the offside rear service brake for binding, as this was a recurring advisory issue in the most recent tests.
Check the driveshaft and universal joints, as the vehicle previously failed excessive play in these areas. Additionally, inspect the front shock absorbers and suspension bushes, which have been flagged as insecure or worn historically. Finally, check the engine bay for the source of the oil leak noted across several years.
This 1998 Ford Transit is a high-mileage example with over 180,000 miles on the clock. While it passed its most recent MOT, the history is marred by serious structural failures, including 'inadequate repairs' affecting braking and steering components. The presence of persistent oil leaks and corroded brake pipes suggests a vehicle that may be nearing the end of its cost-effective life-span.
The 2.5L engine in these Transits is known for longevity if maintained, but the older units are prone to structural rust and suspension wear.
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
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