2001 Ford Transit 2.4L Diesel · SN51 AOY

The most recent MOT test on 30 July 2025 confirms the vehicle passed, though with persistent advisories for corrosion affecting the chassis, inner sills, and rear cross member. Structural rigidity remains intact despite heavy rust, but the repeated wax/oiling treatments suggest the owner has been aware of and mitigating corrosion risks. The June 2025 failure—just three weeks prior—revealed severe brake inefficiency, imbalanced rear axles, and parking brake failure, indicating a critical mechanical oversight. This abrupt failure after a clean pass in July 2025 implies either delayed servicing or a sudden degradation in braking components, warranting urgent verification of disc thickness, caliper binding, and rear brake balance. Mileage progression shows consistent usage at approximately 7,300 miles annually, with no prolonged periods of inactivity or rapid accumulation. The gap between the 2024 and 2025 tests (12 months) aligns with typical MOT intervals, though the near-identical mileage (182,788 to 182,999) suggests the vehicle may have stood unused for part of that period. The 2023 to 2024 interval (12 months) also reflects steady use, with no abrupt jumps that would indicate aggressive driving or neglect. However, the lack of service records between tests raises concerns about maintenance consistency beyond MOT requirements. A buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the rear braking system, given the June 2025 failure for imbalanced axles and efficiency issues. The front track rod end ball joint failure in May 2024 indicates suspension wear, so play in similar components should be checked. Corrosion advisories on the chassis and sills—consistently noted since 2023—demand thorough examination of structural integrity, particularly around welds and load-bearing sections. The central exhaust leak from 2023 may have worsened, so visual inspection for gas leaks or weakened piping is essential. Tyre tread depth has been a recurring issue, with the offside rear failing in 2024; all tyres should be measured for uniformity and remaining life.