2007 Ford Transit Connect 1.8L Diesel · SE07 HPC

The current roadworthiness of this Ford Transit Connect is questionable due to a worsening trend in mechanical and structural defects. While the vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 14 February 2025 at 168,815 miles, the record shows a significant failure just two days prior. The 2025 failure was particularly severe, flagging structural corrosion on the nearside outer sill that significantly reduced the assembly's rigidity. Although the vehicle passed the subsequent retest, several advisories remain, including a corroded offside front coil spring, a severely deteriorated offside front outer drive shaft CV boot, and perishing rear tyres. The vehicle has covered 168,815 miles over approximately 19 years, averaging roughly 8,885 miles per year. This represents a consistent and typical usage pattern for a commercial vehicle of this age. The mileage accumulation is steady, with no significant gaps in the testing timeline, though the frequency of failures suggests that maintenance has often been reactive rather than preventative. The transition from the 156,659 miles recorded in February 2023 to the 168,815 miles in February 2025 shows a consistent annual run rate, indicating the vehicle has been in regular service. A prospective buyer must prioritize a thorough inspection of the vehicle's structural integrity and suspension components. The February 2025 failure for sill corrosion is a major red flag that requires physical verification to ensure the repair was robust and not merely superficial. Recurring issues with drive shaft CV boots, anti-roll bar linkages, and wheel bearings across multiple years, including the 2024 and 2025 tests, suggest that the front suspension and drivetrain are nearing the end of their service life. The history of distorted wheels and rough bearings indicates the vehicle may have been subjected to heavy loads or poor road surfaces. Braking and tyre maintenance also require close scrutiny. The record shows a history of brake pedal issues, imbalanced rear brakes, and worn discs dating back to 2019. The most recent test noted limited reserve travel in the parking brake and slight travel in the service brake. Furthermore, the repeated presence of perishing or damaged tyres, alongside the 2025 advisory for cracking on both rear tyres, suggests that consumable replacement has been inconsistent. An inspection of the current brake pad thickness, disc condition, and the presence of any active oil leaks is essential before purchase.