2009 Ford Transit Connect 1.8L Diesel · ST09 LWN

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 24 March 2026, but the overall maintenance trend is concerning. There is a persistent pattern of structural corrosion and braking system degradation that suggests a reactive rather than proactive approach to maintenance. The repeat appearance of corroded brake pipes and body structure advisories indicates that while immediate failures are being addressed to secure a pass, the underlying issues of oxidation and wear are progressive and have not been fully remediated. With 120,070 recorded miles over 17 years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 7,063 miles per year. This is a typical usage rate for a light commercial vehicle of this vintage, indicating it has neither been excessively worked nor left to deteriorate from prolonged standing. However, at this mileage and age, significant wear on drivetrain components and suspension bushings is expected, and the recorded history confirms that several of these consumables have already reached the end of their service life. Prospective buyers must pay close attention to the braking system and structural integrity. The recurring issues with the central rear brake pipe and the current advisory regarding worn and pitted front brake discs indicate a need for a comprehensive brake overhaul. During a test drive, listen for grinding noises from the front discs and feel for any shuddering or lack of pedal firmness. More critically, the history of structural corrosion on the sills and suspension mountings is a significant red flag. You should physically inspect the underside, specifically the rear suspension mounting areas and sills, for signs of bubbling paint or flaking metal, as this can compromise the vehicle's safety and long-term viability. The vehicle has a documented history of suspension failure, including anti-roll bar links and ball joints. While these may have been replaced, you should listen for clunks or knocks when driving over uneven surfaces or during low-speed manoeuvring. Given the age of the vehicle, verify the service history to ensure that calendar-based maintenance, such as coolant flushes and oil changes, has been performed regardless of the moderate annual mileage. Finally, check the condition of the tyres for uneven wear, which could suggest remaining alignment issues or worn suspension bushes that were not fully resolved during previous repairs.