1998 Volkswagen Transporter 2.4L Diesel · S493 BRC

The most recent MOT test on this Volkswagen Transporter, conducted on 13 December 2025, resulted in a pass, though it was accompanied by several advisories. It is worth noting that a prior test just over a week earlier on 5 December 2025 resulted in a failure due to three major defects, which were evidently rectified to allow the subsequent pass. The maintenance trend over the last five years shows a degree of deterioration, with defects becoming more prevalent from 2021 onwards. The 2022 and 2025 failures, alongside accumulating advisories relating to CV boots, brake hoses, and corrosion, suggest a vehicle where routine maintenance is being conducted but age-related wear is becoming increasingly apparent. The mix of passed tests with advisories and occasional failures indicates a pattern typical of a high-mileage commercial vehicle that requires ongoing attention to keep it roadworthy. With 231,056 recorded miles over approximately 28 years, this Transporter has averaged around 8,252 miles annually, which is broadly typical for its age and likely working van usage. There are no significant gaps in the recorded MOT history to suggest long periods of standing, although the consistent accumulation of mileage implies regular use, which is generally beneficial for keeping mechanical components such as seals, brakes, and the drivetrain in working order. That said, the higher mileage places greater wear expectations on major consumables and mechanical assemblies, particularly the clutch, gearbox, engine internals, and suspension components, all of which will have experienced considerable stress over the vehicle's working life. The recurring advisories and failures relating to the constant velocity boots are a particular area of concern. The history shows deteriorating outer CV boots noted as a minor defect in 2021, an insecure clip advisory in 2022, and ultimately split boots on both the nearside and central drive shaft joints leading to a failure in late 2025. Split CV boots allow grease to escape and permit ingress of dirt and moisture, accelerating wear of the CV joints themselves. A prospective buyer should listen for clicking or knocking noises from the front wheels during tight turns, indicating worn CV joints, and inspect the boots visually for splits, grease deposits, or perished rubber. Similarly, advisories noting deteriorating front brake hoses in 2022 indicate ageing hydraulic components that may soon require replacement; during a test drive, the brake pedal should feel firm, and any sponginess or loss of pressure warrants immediate investigation. Beyond the documented MOT items, the advisories for general corrosion and the major failure relating to excessively corroded inner sill structural mounting in late 2025 are highly significant. This suggests the vehicle is beginning to suffer from structural corrosion, which is common in older commercial vehicles exposed to winter road conditions. A thorough physical inspection is essential, paying particular attention to the inner sills, chassis rails, suspension mounting points, and around the wheel arches for serious rust that could compromise structural integrity. Additionally, with the vehicle being 28 years old, age-related deterioration should be expected regardless of mileage, including perished tyres from age even if tread remains adequate, a 12V battery likely nearing the end of its service life, brake discs corroded or scored from use, and time-based degradation of brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil. A comprehensive service history verification, alongside a pre-purchase mechanical assessment by a specialist familiar with Volkswagen T4 Transporter models, would be strongly advisable before committing to purchase.