2001 LDV 400 Convoy TD LWB 2.5L Diesel · Y357 GHB

The most recent MOT, carried out on 26 October 2023, was passed but recorded an advisory for an oil leak that was judged not to be excessive. Over the last five years the vehicle has shown a consistent pattern of minor oil‑related advisories, occasional steering feel notes and a once‑off major fault for an excessively corroded front brake pipe that led to a failure in September 2021. Since that serious issue the MOT results have been passes, albeit with the same oil‑leak advisory persisting, indicating that the overall maintenance trend is relatively stable but not improving; the recurring leak suggests a component that has not been fully remedied and will require attention before the next test. At 177,140 miles on a 2001 chassis the average annual mileage works out at roughly 7,100 mi, which is well below the typical 10‑12 k mi per year seen on commercial vans. Such low utilisation often points to extended periods of inactivity rather than heavy duty use. The modest mileage reduces the wear on high‑stress items such as the gearbox and engine internals, but the age of the vehicle means that seals, rubber bushings and corrosion‑prone components may have deteriorated simply from time and exposure. Any long‑term storage can also lead to fuel degradation, battery sulphation and tyre side‑wall perishing, all of which should be verified by the buyer. When inspecting the van, give particular focus to the source of the oil leak noted on every MOT. Look for fresh oil around the valve‑cover gasket, oil pan bolts, and the rear‑differential housing; any pooling on the under‑tray or a persistent oil film on the exhaust can indicate a leak that may worsen under load. The front shock absorbers were flagged for light oil misting in 2021, so examine the shock bodies for dampness, check for uneven tyre wear or a soft, squishy ride that could betray loss of damping. The steering system was described as slightly rough and with free play; feel for any judder or wandering when driving at moderate speed, test the steering wheel for excessive play, and inspect the rack, tie‑rod ends and steering column bushings for wear or corrosion. The brake pipe on the nearside front was once deemed excessively corroded – verify that the pipe is free of rust, that the brake fluid is clear, and that there are no wet spots or rust stains around the brake caliper and hose connections, as a compromised pipe can lead to reduced braking efficiency or a sudden loss of pressure. Beyond the recurring defects, age‑related checks are essential. Inspect all four tyres for side‑wall cracking, dry rot or the presence of a DOT date older than six years; even with low mileage the rubber can become brittle. Examine the battery terminals for corrosion and have the cranking voltage measured to ensure the 12 V unit still holds charge. Look over the chassis and under‑body for any signs of rust, especially around wheel arches, suspension mounting points and the exhaust system, as prolonged standing can accelerate corrosion. Finally, confirm that the service book contains regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable), and that coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been replaced within the recommended intervals, since many fluids degrade with time regardless of mileage. A thorough visual inspection combined with a cautious test drive should reveal whether the van’s age‑related wear has been managed adequately and whether the lingering oil leak is likely to become a costly repair.