2005 Ford Transit Connect 1.8L Diesel · ST05 CVM

The most recent MOT recorded on 3 September 2021 was a Pass with no defects noted, which marks a clear improvement from the series of failures recorded between 2017 and 2021. Those earlier failures were dominated by extensive corrosion of inner vehicle structures, outer body panels and a front brake pipe, together with a tyre‑size mismatch and several lighting faults. The successful 2021 test suggests that remedial work was carried out to rectify the corrosion and replace the mismatched tyre, but the vehicle has not been re‑tested for five years, so the current condition remains uncertain and should be verified with a thorough pre‑purchase inspection. With 73 122 mi on the clock after 21 years of age the vehicle averages roughly 3 500 mi per year, well below the typical usage for a light commercial van. Such low annual mileage often points to long periods of inactivity, which can accelerate rust formation on chassis members, cause tyre sidewalls to dry‑crack, and lead to battery sulphation. Conversely, the modest mileage means that wear items such as the clutch, gearbox, and engine internals are likely to be in better condition than a high‑mileage counterpart, provided the vehicle has been stored in a dry environment and serviced regularly. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to any signs of renewed corrosion on the inner and outer structural members, especially around the front and rear wheel arches, door sills and under‑body crossmembers. Look for rust that has progressed beyond surface flaking, as this can compromise rigidity and may have been a factor in the earlier MOT failures. During a test drive, listen for clunking or creaking from the suspension when negotiating bumps, which may indicate worn bushings or compromised chassis sections, and feel for any steering play or uneven tyre wear that could betray hidden rust or mis‑alignment. Verify that all lighting functions—including stop lamps, rear direction indicators and windscreen wipers—operate correctly, and confirm that the fitted tyres are of the correct size and have sufficient tread depth; mismatched sizes can cause handling instability and were previously flagged as a major defect. Given the vehicle’s age and periods of low use, inspect the 12 V battery for terminal corrosion and test its cranking voltage, as prolonged storage often leads to reduced capacity. Examine the condition of all fluid reservoirs: engine oil should be clear and at the correct level, brake fluid may need replacement if it appears dark or contains moisture, and coolant should be free of particulates and at the proper concentration. Check the brake discs and pads for surface rust, glazing or uneven wear, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding. Finally, confirm that the service book shows regular oil changes, timing belt or chain maintenance (if applicable), and any documented corrosion repairs, as these records will give confidence that the van has been kept in a roadworthy state despite its earlier MOT shortcomings.