2015 Ford Transit 2.2L Diesel · AF15 KMA

The most recent DVSA test on 10 July 2026 resulted in a pass, but it is important to recognise that the same date also carries a recorded fail for a nearside front outer drive shaft constant velocity boot defect, which was presumably rectified before the vehicle was retested and presented for its pass certificate. Looking at the broader MOT history across 2023 to 2026, a clear and concerning pattern emerges. The same drive shaft CV boot defect has now appeared at consecutive tests in 2025 and 2026, while brake disc wear advisories were recorded at the 2024 and 2025 tests on both the front and rear axles. Additionally, a 2023 failure included multiple lighting defects alongside another CV boot issue. This consistency of similar component failures suggests a recurring maintenance theme rather than isolated wear, indicating the vehicle may not be receiving comprehensive under-vehicle or drivetrain inspection between tests, or that original equipment CV boots are prone to premature perishing and splitting on this model. With a recorded mileage of 74,965 miles over approximately eleven years, this Transit averages around 6,815 miles annually, which sits close to typical commercial usage expectations. However, the MOT records show large gaps between tests in some years, and mileage consistency between tests cannot be fully verified without the individual annual readings. For a working van of this age, the recorded mileage is not excessive, but vans of this type frequently cover significantly higher distances, so it is worth confirming the mileage against the service book, V5C, and any digital service records. Lower-than-average mileage on a commercial vehicle can occasionally indicate extended periods of standing, which brings its own set of mechanical concerns distinct from high wear. Given the recurring CV boot failures across multiple MOT tests, this is the single most important area to inspect physically. A split or perished CV boot allows grease to escape and contamination to enter the joint, leading to accelerated wear of the constant velocity joint itself, which can ultimately result in complete failure and loss of drive. Symptoms to listen for during a test drive include a rhythmic clicking or popping noise from the front when turning at low speed, shuddering under hard acceleration from a standstill, or vibration through the steering wheel. Both sides of the front axle should be carefully inspected, and any evidence of fresh grease around the boot or on the surrounding suspension components should be treated as a warning sign. Replacement CV boots are relatively inexpensive if caught early, but a neglected joint requiring a complete driveshaft replacement is a far more costly repair. The brake disc advisories from 2024 and 2025 indicating pitting and scoring on all four corners are also worth noting, as these defects typically progress over time. During a road test, listen for brake shudder or vibration through the steering wheel under firm braking, which suggests disc run-out, and check for any pulling to one side which can indicate uneven wear or a binding caliper. Beyond the recorded defects, a vehicle of this age and likely commercial use warrants thorough inspection of areas not covered by MOT testing. Tyres should be examined closely for age-related sidewall cracking and perishing regardless of tread depth, as commercial vans are often fitted with budget tyres that degrade faster. The 12-volt battery should be tested for cranking performance, and all fluids including brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil should be confirmed as within service intervals, since calendar-based degradation occurs even on low-mileage vehicles. Finally, examine the underside for corrosion, particularly on suspension arms, coil springs, and brake lines, as Transits of this generation are known for surface corrosion developing in salt-affected areas, and inspect all suspension bushes for cracking or splitting which can cause the clonking noises commonly reported by owners.