2016 Ford Transit 2.0L Diesel · BT66 USB

The most recent DVSA examination on 19 February 2026 returned a pass, but only after a substantial prior failure on 28 January 2026 which resulted in three major defects and one dangerous failure. The dangerous finding centred on a front brake disc in such a condition that it was seriously weakened, which is a serious safety concern indicative of component fatigue rather than routine wear. The major suspension arm pin or bush wear on both front sides, combined with the recurring advisory entries on the inner front suspension arm pin or bush and rear wishbone bush noted at the January 2024 test, suggests progressive and sustained deterioration of the front suspension assembly that has now escalated into outright test failure. The maintenance trend is therefore not stable; rather, it shows a worsening pattern with structural and braking components approaching or exceeding acceptable service limits, alongside minor electrical items such as a non-functioning offside stop lamp. The recorded mileage of 147,844 miles over a ten-year vehicle life equates to approximately 14,784 miles per annum, which is materially higher than typical mileage for a light commercial vehicle of this age and points to intensive commercial usage. There are no obvious significant gaps in the MOT record, indicating consistent use rather than long periods of standing, which is generally beneficial for mechanical components that suffer from inactivity such as seized calipers or perished fuel lines. However, the high annual mileage combined with the recorded defects confirms accelerated wear on consumable items, particularly tyres, brake friction material, and suspension components. Brake pad advisories on both rear pads were flagged at the January 2025 test, suggesting pad replacement was required shortly thereafter, and the dangerous brake disc finding from January 2026 implies that associated brake hydraulic components, caliper sliding mechanisms, and the corresponding nearside disc will also merit thorough inspection. Given the recurring front suspension arm and rear wishbone bush deterioration recorded across the 2024 and 2026 tests, a prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough physical inspection of the front suspension geometry, including both lower arm bushes, anti-roll bar drop links, and the rear wishbone mountings. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over speed humps or rough surfaces, and pay attention to vague or wandering steering response, uneven front tyre wear particularly on the inner or outer edges, and any vibration through the steering wheel which would corroborate the dangerous brake disc condition noted previously. The brake system requires a comprehensive check including disc run-out, disc thickness measurement on both sides, caliper slide pin operation, and the condition of brake lines and flexible hoses, as the dangerous disc failure suggests the entire brake assembly has been subjected to extended service life without renewal. Beyond the documented defects, several age and mileage related items warrant attention before purchase. The nearside front outer drive shaft CV boot deterioration flagged in 2022 should be confirmed as having been rectified, as a split boot will lead to loss of grease and eventual joint failure if not replaced. The slightly corroded power steering pipe or hose from the 2023 advisory should be examined for active leakage or surface degradation, particularly at mounting clips and unions. Given the high mileage, the timing belt or chain service history must be verified in line with Ford manufacturer schedules, alongside a recent change of all fluids including engine coolant, brake fluid, and gearbox oil to combat calendar based degradation. Tyre sidewalls should be carefully inspected for perishing and cracking from age even if tread depth is adequate, and the 12V battery tested for state of health as commercial vehicles with high electrical load from lighting and ancillaries are prone to premature battery failure.