2021 Ford Transit Custom 300LEADER Eblue 2.0L Diesel · BL21 ABV

The most recent MOT test conducted on 12 March 2026 resulted in a pass, however, five advisory items were recorded alongside the result, indicating that while the vehicle met the minimum statutory roadworthiness requirements, several components are approaching the threshold for attention. The advisories included both rear direction indicators showing slight discolouration, an outer edge wear pattern on the nearside front tyre, a rear outer brake pad noted as wearing low, and a front brake disc recorded as worn but not excessively, coupled with a nearside front inner brake pad also noted as wearing low. Significantly, the immediate prior test on 9 March 2026 resulted in a failure due to a major defect concerning the nearside front outer drive shaft constant velocity joint boot, which was split or insecure with a missing retaining clip, no longer preventing the ingress of dirt. This same component had been flagged in the February 2025 test as a minor defect for severe deterioration of the CV boot with slight grease leakage. The maintenance trajectory therefore suggests a stable overall pass rate but with a recurring and unresolved issue at the nearside front constant velocity joint, alongside emerging wear on the braking system and front tyre that warrants close scrutiny. With approximately 90,031 miles recorded over a five-year period, this Transit Custom is accumulating mileage at roughly 18,000 miles annually, which represents notably high usage for a commercial vehicle of its age and is consistent with sustained operational deployment. This level of annual mileage is likely to accelerate wear on consumable components such as braking systems, suspension bushes, engine and gearbox lubricants, clutch components, and drivetrain elements including the constant velocity joints. There are no significant gaps in the mileage progression evident from the records provided, which suggests the vehicle has been in continuous service rather than subjected to extended periods of standing, reducing the likelihood of standing-related deterioration but increasing the probability of wear-induced defects. The high annual mileage combined with the advisory observations on braking components suggests that the vehicle is operating within parameters where proactive maintenance budgeting for consumables should be expected. Given the recurring constant velocity joint boot defect recorded across two consecutive test cycles, a prospective buyer should conduct a physical inspection of the nearside front driveshaft area, specifically examining the outer CV boot for any splits, perished rubber, grease contamination around the joint, or insecure retaining clips. On a test drive, listen for clicking or knocking noises emanating from the front suspension area during full lock turns at low speed, which would indicate advanced wear of the CV joint internals following prolonged boot compromise. Additionally, the advisories concerning brake pad wear at both the nearside rear outer position and nearside front inner position, combined with the front brake disc wear observation, indicate that braking system maintenance is imminent and a comprehensive brake inspection measuring remaining pad friction material thickness and disc run-out or minimum thickness should be undertaken prior to purchase. Test drive symptoms to monitor include any brake shudder through the steering wheel under firm application, suggesting disc lateral run-out, or any pulling to one side indicating uneven pad wear or caliper slide pin seizure. Beyond the documented defects, the relatively high annual mileage and commercial vehicle application warrant broader inspection of components subject to wear proportional to usage. The nearside front tyre outer edge wear pattern noted as an advisory suggests potential wheel alignment deviation, possibly tracking misalignment or worn suspension components such as wishbone bushes, track rod ends, or drop links, all of which should be physically checked for play and perishing. With high mileage accumulation, the clutch operation should be assessed for slipping under load or juddering on take-off, and the engine and gearbox should be observed for any unusual noises, fluid leaks, or hesitant gear selection. Furthermore, despite the relatively young registration, calendar-based deterioration remains relevant; coolant, brake fluid, and automatic or manual transmission fluid should be verified for recent renewal in line with manufacturer service intervals, and the 12V battery should be load tested given that commercial vehicles often experience high parasitic drain from auxiliary equipment. Finally, the structural underside, exhaust system, and rear suspension leaf components should be examined for corrosion, cracking, or wear consistent with high commercial mileage exposure.