2019 Ford Transit Connect 1.5L Diesel · CP19 UGN

The vehicle remains roadworthy as of its most recent MOT on 2026-04-18, but the maintenance trend is worsening. The same suspension ball joint issue reappeared in both 2025 and 2026 tests, indicating a persistent mechanical fault that may be progressing. Tyre wear has been a recurring concern since 2024, with nearside front and rear tyres consistently approaching or at legal limits, suggesting either aggressive driving, misalignment, or inadequate rotation. Brake components have shown thin pad wear and surface scoring on discs since 2023, which, while not yet critical, signals ongoing friction component degradation. Mileage accumulation is notably high for a seven-year-old van, averaging nearly 18,200 miles per year. The jump from 70,079 miles in April 2024 to 96,527 miles in April 2025 — a 26,448-mile increase in one year — is steep and implies heavy usage or possibly inaccurate mileage recording. The 2026 test at 127,272 miles confirms continued high usage, with no significant gaps in testing. This level of wear accelerates fatigue on suspension bushes, coil springs, brake calipers, and drivetrain components, especially when combined with the documented tyre and brake issues. Buyers should inspect the front suspension arms and ball joints closely, as the repeated play in the nearside front joint suggests potential wear or looseness that could affect handling and safety. Brake pads and discs should be measured for thickness and surface condition — the scoring and thinness noted in prior tests indicate they are nearing replacement. Tyres must be checked for uneven wear, sidewall integrity, and tread depth, particularly the nearside front and rear, which have consistently been flagged. The 2024 engine MIL fault, though resolved by 2025, warrants a diagnostic scan to confirm no underlying emissions or drivability issues remain. Structural integrity should not be overlooked — while no corrosion or frame damage was recorded, the high mileage and repeated tyre wear suggest the vehicle may have been operated with alignment or suspension misadjustments. A pre-purchase inspection should include a full suspension check, brake system pressure test, and wheel alignment verification to ensure no hidden mechanical compromise exists beneath the surface of the MOT pass.