2015 Ford Transit Connect 1.6L Diesel · A22 SAP

The most recent MOT test on 2026-06-17 resulted in a pass, though it included an advisory regarding offside rear brake pipe corrosion and grease accumulation, which suggests ongoing or recent exposure to moisture and potential fluid ingress. While this advisory does not affect roadworthiness, it indicates a recurring issue that may warrant closer attention in future inspections, particularly if the vehicle is driven regularly or exposed to harsh conditions. The preceding MOT history reveals a pattern of minor wear advisories—such as thin brake pads, slight play in front anti-roll bar ball joints, and worn tyres—without any major failures beyond the 2023 test, where the near-side front anti-roll bar ball joint was deemed excessively worn. This suggests a stable maintenance trend with persistent but manageable issues, though the need for proactive servicing remains evident. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 103,946 miles over approximately 11 years represents an average annual usage of around 9,450 miles, which is within the expected range for its age and class. While lower mileage might imply periods of inactivity or light use, the consistent accumulation of 100,000+ miles over a decade indicates significant operational exposure, particularly to suspension, braking systems, and tyre wear. The absence of extreme mileage spikes suggests steady but not overly aggressive driving, though this does not mitigate the wear observed in the anti-roll bar ball joints and tyres, which are critical components prone to fatigue and degradation under prolonged use. Given the recurring advisories—particularly the front and rear brake pads nearing or already below optimal thickness, the hydraulic reservoir nearing minimum fluid levels, and the front tyres approaching legal limits—buyers should prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system. Check for uneven brake pad wear, which may indicate misalignment or hydraulic issues, and listen for abnormal brake pulsation or shuddering during deceleration, which could signal warped discs or binding calipers. The corroded rear brake pipe should prompt a check for fluid leaks under the vehicle, as corrosion can compromise pipe integrity and lead to brake fluid loss. Additionally, verify the brake hydraulic reservoir’s fluid level and condition, ensuring it is topped up to the correct mark and free from contamination, as low fluid levels or degraded brake fluid can impair braking performance. For the tyres, despite the recent MOT failing to meet the minimum tread depth, the vehicle’s age and mileage suggest further wear progression. Inspect the front tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can weaken the tyre structure and reduce handling stability, especially in wet conditions. The rear tyres, already below legal limits, should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent hydroplaning risks and uneven traction. Beyond the MOT advisories, buyers should also assess the suspension for signs of excessive play or binding in the front anti-roll bar ball joints, which could lead to steering instability or uneven tyre wear. A test drive should include checks for clunking noises from the suspension, uneven tyre wear patterns, and any excessive vibration or pulling, which may indicate misalignment or worn suspension components. Lastly, given the vehicle’s age, a comprehensive fluid service—including engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid—should be scheduled to address calendar-based degradation, and the 12V battery’s health should be evaluated, as prolonged inactivity can lead to reduced capacity or corrosion in terminals.