2009 Ford Transit Connect 1.8L Diesel · SA09 BZP

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Ford Transit Connect occurred on 2024-05-24, resulting in a pass, though it did reveal persistent issues that require careful consideration. Over the past five years, the vehicle has maintained a stable MOT record with only minor failures, except for two notable major defects in 2019 and 2022 related to the offside front drive shaft constant velocity (CV) boot splits, which were critical failures preventing dirt ingress. These recurring issues suggest a pattern of either poor maintenance or inherent wear on the CV joints, which are critical components of the drivetrain. While the 2024 test did not repeat these failures, the advisories—particularly the severely deteriorated CV boots from previous tests—indicate ongoing wear that may escalate if not addressed promptly. The presence of brake pipe corrosion and tyre wear advisories further underscores the need for proactive servicing, as these are common in vehicles that have either been stationary for extended periods or driven lightly, leading to accelerated degradation in consumables and fluid systems. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 78,512 miles at the time of inspection represents a remarkably low annual usage rate of approximately 4,618 miles per year, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age. Given its 17-year lifespan, this suggests either minimal operational demand or significant periods of inactivity, potentially leading to issues such as standing corrosion, fluid degradation, and component dryness. Light usage can exacerbate wear on critical systems like brakes, suspension, and drive components, as they may not be cycled sufficiently to maintain lubrication and tension. The absence of higher mileage figures over the years also raises questions about whether the vehicle has been subjected to rigorous or prolonged stress, which could mask underlying mechanical fatigue. For instance, prolonged idling or infrequent driving can accelerate corrosion in brake pipes and fluid degradation in hydraulic systems, while suspension components may suffer from stiffness or binding due to lack of movement. In evaluating this vehicle, the buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the drivetrain and suspension, given the history of CV boot failures and ball joint deterioration. The severely deteriorated CV boots from previous MOTs indicate that the offside front CV joints are at high risk of further failure, which could lead to drivetrain slippage or catastrophic transmission of contaminants into the drivetrain system. Signs of impending CV joint failure include a noticeable clunking or rattling noise during acceleration or deceleration, particularly when the vehicle is driven at lower speeds or over bumps. The buyer should also check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may correlate with suspension or alignment issues, and listen for clunks or rattles in the suspension during a test drive, especially when the vehicle is cornered or driven over rough terrain. Additionally, the brake system shows recurring advisories of pipe corrosion and potential fluid leakage, which could compromise braking performance if not addressed. Inspect the brake pipes for signs of rust, cracks, or grease accumulation, and test the braking action for softness or reduced responsiveness, which may indicate fluid degradation or hydraulic system failure. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should also consider the broader implications of the vehicle’s low annual mileage. Given its age, the Transit Connect may have experienced fluid degradation over time, particularly in the brake fluid, power steering, and differential lubricants, which can become gelled or contaminated if not serviced regularly. The advisories of brake pedal wear smoothness and power steering seepage from previous tests suggest that these fluids may have reached their service life, and a full fluid change would be prudent. The vehicle’s tyres, while not failing the MOT, should be inspected for sidewall perishing or cracking, which can occur even with low mileage if the rubber has been exposed to prolonged environmental conditions. Finally, the standing corrosion advisories on the brake pipes and the potential for battery health degradation due to infrequent use mean that the buyer should verify the battery’s charge level and consider a test drive to ensure the electrical systems remain operational. A comprehensive service history check would also be beneficial to confirm whether the vehicle has undergone routine maintenance, such as timing belt replacement or suspension component replacements, which are critical for long-term reliability.