2015 Ford Transit 2.2L Diesel · CX65 PUJ

The most recent DVSA examination on 6 February 2026 resulted in an advisory pass, with both front tyres flagged as worn close to the legal limit and wearing on the edge. However, the same date also carries a fail record showing that the vehicle was presented in an unroadworthy condition earlier the same day, with major defects recorded against the offside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint, the front lower engine mounting, and the front-to-rear and rear axle metal brake pipes. That the vehicle subsequently passed after repair suggests the brake pipe corrosion, engine mount, and anti-roll bar components were addressed, but it is essential to verify with documentation exactly what rectification work was carried out and whether genuine new components or repair sections were used. Looking across the recent test history from 2023 onwards, the maintenance trend is clearly worsening rather than stable, with progressively serious advisories appearing each year covering brake pipe corrosion across the rear axle, engine mount wear, structural and subframe corrosion, and rear suspension corrosion. The transition from advisory brake pipe corrosion in 2023 to major brake pipe failure in 2026 indicates an accelerating deterioration pattern, which is a significant concern for any prospective purchaser. With a recorded mileage of 134,229 miles over an 11-year service life, this Transit has averaged around 12,200 miles annually, which is high mileage for a commercial vehicle of this age and consistent with sustained heavy-duty fleet or tradesman use. This level of annual usage places considerable wear on the clutch, turbocharger, dual-mass flywheel if fitted, suspension bushes, wheel bearings, and braking components. There are no conspicuous gaps in the mileage progression between tests, suggesting the vehicle has been in regular service rather than laid up, which is positive for moving components but does mean wear-related failures should be expected. The high mileage combined with the corrosion findings on the subframe, rear axle, and structural elements points to a working van that has endured significant operational stress throughout its life. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the recurring brake pipe corrosion issue. Metal brake lines on Transits of this generation are well known to corrode from the inside out, particularly along the rear axle where road salt and grime accumulate. On inspection, look for any bubbling, flaking, or live rust on the brake lines running along the chassis rails and across the rear axle, and check that any replacement pipes are properly clipped and flared rather than crudely patched. On a test drive, listen for any scraping or grinding from the rear underbraking, and verify the brake pedal feels firm with no sponginess or excessive travel, as compromised pipes can introduce air into the system. The advisories regarding structural and subframe corrosion should also be examined closely by placing the vehicle on a ramp to check the front subframe mounting points, jacking points, and rear axle casing for advanced perforation, as Transits are notorious for rear axle corrosion that can ultimately render the vehicle beyond economical repair. Further checks should include a thorough inspection of the front tyres for both tread depth and any uneven shoulder wear, which the MOT history suggests is a recurring problem and may indicate worn suspension bushes, tracking misalignment, or deteriorated anti-roll bar components. Given the high mileage, the engine and gearbox should be observed for any smoke from the exhaust on start-up or under load, particularly from the turbo, and the gearbox should be checked for smooth engagement across all gears. The oil leak advisory from the 2025 test should be monitored by inspecting the underside for fresh oil deposits and checking the coolant and brake fluid levels for any cross-contamination. With an 11-year-old high-mileage commercial vehicle showing escalating structural and brake corrosion concerns, a pre-purchase inspection by a specialist commercial vehicle technician is strongly advised to verify the integrity of recent repairs and assess whether further significant expenditure is imminent.