2013 Ford Transit Connect 1.8L Diesel · YR13 JYB

The vehicle presents a concerning mechanical trend, specifically regarding structural integrity and suspension-related wear. While it passed its most recent test in September 2025 at 106,024 miles, this followed a significant failure just one day prior. The failure revealed critical structural corrosion on the nearside rear and middle sills, which had significantly reduced structural strength. Although the subsequent pass indicates a repair was covered with underseal, the presence of such extensive welding to mask underlying rust suggests a worsening condition of the chassis's foundation. At 106,024 miles over 13 years, the Transit Connect has averaged approximately 8,156 miles per year, which is entirely typical for a commercial vehicle of this age. The records show a steady usage pattern, with roughly 8,700 miles covered between August 2023 and September 2024, and another 7,500 miles in the year leading up to the September 2025 test. This consistent mileage suggests the vehicle is used regularly rather than sitting stationary for long periods. A prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough physical inspection of the underbody to verify the quality of the structural repairs mentioned in the September 2025 failure. The tester noted that underseal was used to cover suspension mounting repairs, which often hides active active corrosion that can continue to spread. Furthermore, the recurring issues with front track rod end ball joints and corroded suspension arms across 2024 and 2025 indicate that the front suspension geometry is reaching its end life. The front brake discs were also flagged as pitted and scored in the latest test, suggesting they will require replacement shortly to ensure effective stopping performance.