2017 Ford Transit Connect 1.5L Diesel · AF67 TFX

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2017 Ford Transit Connect, conducted on 3 October 2025, resulted in a Pass, though it was preceded on the same date by a Fail that was subsequently rectified. The initial failure cited both headlamps with aim set too high and an offside windscreen wiper failing to clear the screen effectively, all classified as present and dangerous to dangerous-prescribed items, alongside advisories already noted in the pass record. The maintenance trend over the past four years reveals a vehicle that has consistently passed its annual inspection, but with a growing accumulation of advisories relating to brake discs, brake pads, and premature tyre wear. The recurrence of brake disc lipping and inner-edge tyre wear at the front across the 2020, 2023, and 2025 tests suggests an underlying geometry or suspension concern rather than isolated component ageing, which a prospective buyer should treat as a developing mechanical theme requiring closer investigation. With recorded mileage of 56,850 against an age of approximately nine years, this Transit Connect has averaged around 6,317 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a light commercial vehicle of this vintage. However, the MOT history reveals a notable mileage gap between the 2020 test and the 2022 test, indicating a period of reduced use, followed by more consistent running thereafter. Periods of standing or low utilisation on commercial vehicles commonly accelerate calendar-based degradation of fluids, brake caliper seizure, and underbody corrosion, while the resumption of regular driving subsequently places renewed load on ageing suspension and drivetrain components. This pattern, combined with the van's working-vehicle heritage, makes a thorough check of time-served components particularly important irrespective of the moderate odometer reading. Given the recurring advisories on front brake discs showing lipping and front tyres wearing on the inner edges, a prospective buyer should undertake a careful physical inspection of the front suspension and wheel alignment geometry. Uneven inner-edge tyre wear on a Transit Connect is frequently indicative of worn suspension bushes, weakened coil springs, or incorrect tracking, and these conditions will not self-correct with replacement tyres alone. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, and pay attention to any pulling to one side under braking or vague, wandering steering response. The brake disc lipping, while currently within advisory limits, will progress to a point where pedal pulsation or brake shudder becomes apparent, so the discs should be measured for thickness and examined for heat-checking or corrosion pitting, particularly given the vehicle's tendency to short urban trips where brakes rarely reach full operational temperature. Beyond the recorded advisories, the age and usage profile of this van warrant attention to several calendar-sensitive items that MOT testing does not fully assess. The 12V battery is approaching the typical end of its service life and should be load-tested, particularly given the periods of standing the vehicle appears to have endured. Brake fluid should be confirmed as recently changed, as moisture absorption over nine years substantially degrades boiling point and ABS performance. Coolant renewal intervals on the Transit Connect diesel are time-based, and the timing belt or cam belt service history should be verified with documentary evidence, as replacement is critical and failure can result in catastrophic engine damage. Finally, examine the load area floor, rear suspension leaf springs, and underbody mounting points for commercial-use damage or corrosion, check the tyre sidewalls for age-related perishing cracking regardless of remaining tread depth, and inspect the wiper linkage and headlamp adjuster mechanisms, both of which have already presented faults in the most recent test cycle.