2018 Ford Transit Custom 2.0L Diesel · CV18 XLO

A recurring pattern of component wear and mechanical defects characterizes this vehicle's recent MOT history, moving from a clean record in 2024 to more frequent failures and advisories in the subsequent two years. While the most recent test on 11 June 2026 resulted in a pass, it introduced an advisory for an oil leak that was noted as not being excessive. This follows a failure in June 2025 involving a defective nearside front windscreen wiper and a compromised offside front lower suspension arm ball joint dust cover, alongside a missing nearside rear suspension bump stop. The transition from no recorded defects in 2023 and 2024 to these specific mechanical issues suggests a shift toward more frequent maintenance requirements for wear-and-tear components. The vehicle has covered 89,439 miles over approximately eight years, which equates to an average annual usage of roughly 11,180 miles. This mileage accumulation is consistent with typical usage for a commercial vehicle of this age and does not indicate periods of prolonged inactivity or unusually heavy-duty operation. Mechanically, this steady rate of use suggests that components such as the suspension linkages, braking system, and drivetrain are subject to standard operational wear rather than the accelerated degradation seen in high-mileage commercial workhorses or the potential stasis-related issues found in very low-mileage vehicles. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the underside of the vehicle and the engine bay due to the advisory regarding an oil leak recorded in June 2026. During a test drive, it is advisable to monitor the engine for any unusual smells or visible smoke, and to check for any dripping or pooling beneath the vehicle after it has been stationary. Furthermore, the previous failure of the offside front lower suspension arm ball joint dust cover indicates that the integrity of the suspension's protective seals has been a recent concern. On the road, listen for any rhythmic knocking, clunking, or creaking sounds when navigating uneven surfaces or turning the steering wheel, as these can be symptoms of worn ball joints or deteriorated suspension bushes. The history of windscreen wiper failures and a missing obligatory mirror in 2023 highlights a need to verify the functionality of all external visibility components. Ensure that the wiper blades clear the glass effectively without streaking or juddering, and confirm that all mirrors are securely fitted and provide an unobstructed view. Additionally, the advisory regarding the missing nearside rear suspension bump stop should be addressed; while not a failure in the latest test, the absence of these components can lead to increased impact harshness and potential damage to the shock absorbers if the suspension is subjected to heavy loads or significant vertical travel.