2004 Fiat Ducato 11 JTD SWB 2.0L Heavy oil · WN54 LRL

Structural corrosion is the dominant mechanical theme in this Fiat Ducato's MOT history, with both inner front vehicle structures flagged for surface rust at the 2022 test. While the tester judged structural rigidity not significantly reduced at that point, a two-year gap in testing follows before the most recent pass on 26 March 2025, which contained no advisories. Two failures appear in the record, one in 2023 and another in March 2025, both with no defects recorded, suggesting they were likely rectification or refusal-to-test entries rather than mechanical breakdowns. The overall trend presents a mixed picture: the most recent outcome is clean, but the corrosive findings on load-bearing inner structures warrant close physical inspection, particularly given the vehicle's commercial van construction where front structural members endure high stress. Against an age of approximately 22 years, the recorded mileage of 78,439 miles equates to roughly 3,565 miles annually, which is notably low for a working panel van of this type. The MOT entries span from 2019 to 2025, and the gaps between tests suggest periods off the road rather than continuous commercial operation. Low accumulation on a commercial chassis can mean extended standing, which itself promotes corrosion in suspension linkages, brake calipers, and underbody seams, as well as drying of rubber bushes and potential moisture ingress into brake hydraulic systems. Equally, it could simply reflect light domestic use. Either way, the underfloor and inner wing areas should be examined thoroughly for rust progression beyond what the single 2022 advisory captured. For a prospective buyer, the 2022 advisories on nearside and offside front inner vehicle structure are the priority items to verify. On inspection, look for bubbling paint, flaking metal, or perforations around the inner front chassis legs, turret tops, and suspension strut mounting areas, as corrosion spreads quickly from these zones on Ducatos of this vintage. Pay particular attention to the subframe, lower suspension arms, and brake pipe runs along the inner wings, where rust can compromise structural integrity and brake line integrity simultaneously. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn bushes or top mounts, and feel for any pulling to one side under braking that might suggest a binding caliper or seized slider following long periods of inactivity. Given the two failures recorded with no defect details, it is worth asking the seller for the original refusal notices to confirm what was addressed. Check the obligatory mirrors for damage or replacement condition, as one PRS failure related to an offside mirror. Inspect the tyres for uneven shoulder wear, which on a light commercial vehicle often points to misalignment, worn suspension bushes, or weakened springs. Finally, examine the exhaust downpipe and catalytic converter area for corrosion, and verify that the brake fluid and coolant have been refreshed; standing time on a 22-year-old van means these fluids are almost certainly due for replacement regardless of the clean recent test outcome.