2018 Ford Transit Courier 1.5L Diesel · BU11 FSB

Recurring steering and suspension component wear characterizes the mechanical profile of this Ford Transit Courier, with recent tests showing a trend of deteriorating steering rack and suspension integrity. The most recent MOT on 10 February 2026 resulted in a pass, but it carried advisories for play in the offside front steering rack inner joint and worn front brake discs. This follows a failure on 09 February 2026 due to an inoperative windscreen washer and an inoperative offside rear registration plate lamp. The history shows a pattern of suspension-related issues, including a major failure in February 2025 for an excessively worn offside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint, which suggests ongoing wear in the front-end linkage components. The vehicle has covered 133,843 miles over approximately eight years, representing an annual average of roughly 16,730 miles. This is a high rate of accumulation for a vehicle of this age, which typically correlates with increased mechanical stress on consumable parts and chassis components. Such high-frequency usage explains the repeated findings regarding brake disc wear, tyre degradation, and the wear observed in the suspension ball joints and steering rack. The mileage profile indicates a vehicle that has been consistently utilised, likely in a commercial or high-use capacity, rather than one that has sat idle for extended periods. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the steering and front suspension during a test drive to address the recorded play in the steering rack inner joint and previous anti-roll bar failures. Listen for knocking or clunking sounds when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, as these are common symptoms of worn ball joints or steering rack play. Additionally, the advisory regarding worn front brake discs warrants a physical inspection of the disc surface for heavy grooving or excessive lip thickness. During braking, check for any pedal judder or vibrations, which can indicate uneven disc wear or warped rotors. The history of tyre wear, specifically the advisory in February 2025 regarding the offside front tyre being worn on the inner edge, suggests a potential for misalignment. This should be cross-referenced with the recorded play in the track rod end and steering rack components. On a straight road, the vehicle should be tested for any pulling to one side or a wandering sensation through the steering wheel, which would confirm that the steering geometry or the rack itself requires attention. The recent failure of the windscreen washer system also indicates that basic peripheral maintenance should be verified to ensure all fluid delivery systems are fully operational.