2016 Ford Transit Connect 1.6L Diesel · MK16 ABV

The vehicle presents a deteriorating maintenance trend, culminating in a significant failure in March 2024 at 114,867 miles. While the vehicle previously maintained clean records, the most recent inspection reveals critical neglect regarding the braking system. The tester identified a dangerous brake imbalance across the front axle exceeding 50 per cent, alongside a binding offside rear service brake and worn discs all around. This shift from no defects to multiple mechanical failures suggests a pattern where essential components are being ignored until they reach a point of regulatory failure. The mileage profile is remarkably consistent for a commercial vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 11,500 miles per annum. However, there is a notable acceleration in usage between February 2022 at 77,354 miles and February 2023 at 99,184 miles, where the vehicle covered over 21,000 miles in a single year. This increased workload likely correlates with the transition from a defect-free record to the recurring wear-related issues seen in the 2023 advisory and the failed 2024 test. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the braking assembly to ensure the faults identified in March 2024 were professionally rectified. The history of brake imbalance and binding indicates a need to check for seized calipers, perished sliders, and uneven wear on the replacement discs. Given the previous advisory for perishing tyres in 2023, the age and condition of all rubber components should also be scrutinized for cracking, as the record shows a history of reactive rather than preventative maintenance.