2017 Ford Transit 2.0L Diesel · CP17 AAZ

The most recent DVSA MOT test, conducted on 22 November 2024, resulted in a Pass, but the report carried five advisories, which indicates that while the vehicle remained roadworthy at the point of test, several components were nearing the end of their useful service life. Comparing this with the 2022 test, which itself carried five advisories relating to front tyres, front suspension ball joint play, and power steering pipe seepage, the maintenance trend appears to be stable rather than improving, with a consistent pattern of wear-related advisories appearing across consecutive tests. The recurrence of brake-related advisories in the latest test, alongside the suspension and steering observations from two years prior, suggests that the vehicle has been subject to the typical progressive wear expected of a high-capacity commercial van in active service, and these items should be regarded as the most likely candidates for imminent rectification. With a recorded mileage of 105,052 miles over approximately nine years, this Transit has covered an average of around 11,672 miles annually, which is broadly typical for its class and age. There are no significant gaps in the MOT history to suggest long periods of standing, which is mechanically beneficial as it reduces the likelihood of severe corrosion to brake discs, callipers, and exhaust mounting points. However, the consistent annual usage means that consumable components such as clutches, dual-mass flywheels, turbochargers, and suspension bushes have been subjected to steady wear, and a vehicle of this mileage and age should be expected to require ongoing attention to driveline and underbody components. The advisories recorded at the 2024 test warrant particular attention from a prospective buyer. The front brake discs being worn, pitted, or scored indicates surface degradation that, while not yet a failure point, will progress to reduced braking efficiency, potential brake shudder under heavy application, and increased pad wear. On a test drive, listen for any pulsation through the brake pedal and watch for any pulling to one side under braking, both of which would suggest the discs have deteriorated beyond the advisory threshold. The front brake pads noted as wearing thin should be replaced in conjunction with the discs to ensure even bedding and balanced braking performance. The rear brake pipe advisory regarding corrosion covered in grease should be physically inspected; the presence of grease may be masking underlying corrosion that could compromise pipe integrity, and any seepage or wetness around the pipe joints on close inspection would warrant immediate replacement for safety and MOT compliance. The advisory concerning the braking system requiring adjustment or repair, while vague, suggests the overall brake balance or efficiency was borderline and should be verified with a measured brake efficiency test by a competent technician. The 2022 advisories remain highly relevant given the two-year interval and the mileage likely accumulated since. The slight play recorded in both front lower suspension arm ball joints is a classic Transit weakness and will have progressed; on test, listen for clonking or knocking over speed humps, uneven tyre wear particularly on the inner or outer edges of the front tyres, and vagueness or wandering in the steering response. The power steering pipe seepage, noted on both upper and lower sections, should be inspected with the engine running for any fresh fluid accumulation, as a weeping pipe under pressure can escalate to a significant leak with potential damage to the power steering rack and risk of fire if fluid contacts hot exhaust components. Beyond the recorded advisories, given the vehicle's age and mileage, a prospective buyer should also satisfy themselves regarding the condition of the timing belt or chain service interval compliance, the health of the 12V battery, the state of the coolant and brake fluid in respect of their calendar-based degradation, and the condition of the rear suspension leaf springs and bushes, which are known wear items on Transits of this generation and are not always flagged at MOT if not severely deteriorated.