2004 Ford Transit Connect 1.8L Diesel · WD04 NWL

The 2004 Ford Transit Connect has demonstrated consistent MOT compliance over the past four cycles, with the most recent test on 2026-01-24 confirming no defects despite a rare dual-pass scenario—an anomaly that warrants further scrutiny during an in-person inspection. The absence of advisories or recurring failures across all five tests suggests the vehicle has not suffered from systemic issues like suspension degradation, exhaust leaks, or severe corrosion. However, the January 2026 retest, conducted at identical mileage, raises suspicion of either a procedural oversight or a minor, non-critical oversight by the tester that did not impact passability. The recorded mileage of 94,371 miles over 22 years equates to an average of approximately 4,290 miles annually, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age and class. The gap between the 2022 and 2024 tests—covering 2,569 miles in nearly two years—further supports the likelihood of prolonged periods of inactivity. While low mileage generally indicates less wear on high-stress components like brakes, suspension, and drivetrain, it also implies potential neglect of routine maintenance such as fluid changes, tyre rotation, and minor servicing. The lack of advisories does not preclude hidden issues; for instance, standing for extended periods can accelerate corrosion in wheel arches, underbody, and suspension mounts. Given the clean MOT history, the primary focus of an in-person inspection should centre on structural integrity and consumable wear. Check for signs of corrosion in wheel arches, sills, and sub-frame areas, particularly where salt or moisture accumulation is likely. Inspect suspension bushes and coil springs for excessive play or cracking, as these components degrade gradually even with low mileage if not serviced. The brakes, while not flagged, should be examined for uneven wear or binding calipers, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for prolonged periods. Finally, verify the condition of the exhaust system for leaks or rust-through, as emissions-related failures are uncommon in this model but can develop silently over time. The absence of advisories does not guarantee these areas are flawless—only that they did not fail the MOT test criteria at the time of inspection.