2009 Ford Transit 2.2L Diesel · AF09 VJD

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Ford Transit occurred on 2023-09-26, resulting in a pass despite retaining several persistent advisories. While the vehicle has not failed an MOT since 2021, the pattern of recurring issues—particularly the oil leaks, power steering component wear, and brake system advisories—suggests a maintenance trend that has not significantly improved. The consistent presence of minor fluid-related defects, such as the power steering pipe/hose seepage and front brake pipe corrosion, indicates underlying wear that may be compounding over time, warranting closer attention to prevent escalation into major failures. The nearside mirror damage, though non-functional for roadworthiness, does not affect mechanical integrity and can be easily replaced without compromising safety. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 326,478 miles at the time of this assessment represents a usage rate of approximately 19,205 miles per year, which is exceptionally high for a 17-year-old Transit. Such rapid mileage accumulation accelerates wear on critical components, including brakes, suspension, and drivetrain elements, as evidenced by the frequent advisories on brake pad wear and suspension bush integrity. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests continuous or heavy use, which may have contributed to the observed degradation in fluid systems, corrosion, and mechanical linkages. Buyers should be aware that high-mileage vehicles of this age are particularly susceptible to cumulative stress on components, necessitating a thorough inspection of those areas to mitigate future reliability risks. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination are the brake system, suspension, and fluid integrity. The advisories on front brake discs showing slight pitting and thin rear brake pads indicate that the braking performance may already be compromised, with potential for reduced stopping efficiency or uneven wear if not addressed soon. During a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, pulsations under braking, or signs of brake fluid contamination, which could suggest internal brake disc warping or seized calipers. Additionally, check for excessive play in the front anti-roll bar linkages or clunking noises from the suspension bushes, which may indicate impending failure of these components. The persistent oil leaks suggest worn or failing seals, particularly around the engine bay and transmission area, so inspect for dark oil stains under the vehicle and verify that the oil level remains stable during operation. Beyond the advisories, the power steering system’s condition is another priority, given the repeated seepage issues. Test for smooth steering response and any signs of resistance or vibration, which could indicate failing power steering pumps or hoses. The vehicle’s high mileage also means that fluids—particularly the engine oil, power steering fluid, and brake fluid—should be replaced according to service intervals, as older fluids can degrade over time, leading to increased wear or system failure. For the 2009 Transit, the last scheduled fluid service should have been around 2018–2020, but given the mileage, a full fluid flush is strongly recommended. Finally, examine the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can compromise structural integrity, and check the battery for corrosion or a weak hold, as standing vehicles of this age are prone to battery drain from parasitic loads or poor terminal condition. A comprehensive inspection of the exhaust system for corrosion or structural weakness is also advisable, given the vehicle’s age and exposure to moisture.