2016 Ford Transit Connect 1.5L Diesel · WA55 AJW

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 20 May 2026, although this followed a failure primarily related to lighting and headlamp alignment. While the most recent tests suggest a focus on basic road legality, the overall maintenance trend is concerning. The history reveals a pattern of neglecting critical safety components, most notably a 2023 failure involving four dangerous or defective tyres, suggesting a period of poor upkeep. While the lighting issues are trivial, the recurring nature of these failures indicates a reactive rather than proactive approach to maintenance. With 174,986 recorded miles over approximately ten years, this vehicle has averaged nearly 17,500 miles per year. This is significantly higher than average for a light commercial vehicle of this age. Such high mileage implies substantial wear on all primary drivetrain components, including the clutch, dual mass flywheel, and turbocharger. The suspension geometry and chassis bushings will have undergone significant stress, increasing the likelihood of fatigue in the structural components and a general degradation of the ride quality and handling precision. Prospective buyers must pay close attention to the steering system. There is a documented history of play in the steering rack inner joints dating back to 2023, and the most recent test noted a damaged track rod end dust cover. During a test drive, listen for clunking or knocking sounds when turning the wheel at low speeds or traversing uneven surfaces. Any vagueness in the steering response or a requirement for excessive correction on straight roads suggests the steering rack may require a full overhaul or replacement. Inspect the front tyres for uneven or scalloped wear, which often correlates with these steering and suspension defects. The 2024 advisory regarding thin rear brake pads suggests a need to verify the current state of the braking system. Check for brake shudder under deceleration or a spongy pedal feel, which could indicate worn pads or degraded brake fluid. Given the high mileage, it is imperative to verify the service history for evidence of timing belt and water pump replacements, as these are critical failure points. Finally, inspect the underside for corrosion, particularly around the sills and chassis rails, as high mileage work vehicles are often exposed to harsher environments that accelerate structural decay.