2022 Ford Transit Custom 300LIMITD Eblue 2.0L Diesel · DS22 LCN

A recent drive shaft joint failure on the offside front inner end is the standout mechanical event in this Transit Custom's MOT record, the component having been declared excessively worn under the major defect category at a re-test on 06 June 2026. While the vehicle subsequently passed on 08 June 2026 with no advisories recorded, the underlying joint wear is worth probing, as excessive wear on an inner drive shaft joint in a 2022 vehicle at roughly 36,000 miles is unusual and may point to a perished gaiter allowing contamination, a seized component, or damage from a kerb impact or pothole. Separately, the May 2025 test recorded a fail on both rear stop lamps not working, with the rectification noted as a PRS repair rather than a component replacement flagged at re-test, alongside a nearside front tyre advisory for wear close to the legal limit and edge wear, which suggests either front wheel geometry misalignment or uneven suspension component wear on that corner. The overall record shows two failures within the last fifteen months, both relatively minor in isolation, but they indicate that the vehicle is not without its fault history and a pre-purchase inspection should focus on the rectified components. With four years of registration and 36,385 miles accumulated, annual mileage sits at roughly 9,100 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a light commercial vehicle of this type and indicates regular operational use rather than long stationary periods. There is no multi-year gap in the MOT record that would raise concerns about standing-related deterioration such as seized brakes, perished dampers, or battery degradation, and the consistent annual accumulation suggests the drivetrain, clutch (if applicable) and engine components have been worked regularly enough to avoid cold-start and condensation-related issues. However, even at moderate mileage, light commercials frequently experience higher wear on suspension and braking components due to payload cycling, so the recorded figures should not be interpreted as a proxy for low mechanical stress. On a physical inspection and test drive, particular attention should be directed to the offside front inner drive shaft joint that prompted the recent major defect. Listen for a clicking or knocking noise on full lock during low-speed manoeuvres, and feel for any vibration or shunt through the transmission when reversing on full lock, as either symptom suggests the joint has not been properly replaced or has been damaged again. Inspect the condition of both inner and outer CV gaiters for splits, grease loss, or contamination, and check for any recent grease deposits on the underside of the nearside front wheel area which would indicate a compromised boot. The nearside front tyre edge wear advisory from 2025 should be revisited by examining the current pair of tyres for uneven inner or outer shoulder wear, as this pattern is consistent with worn suspension bushes, a failing top mount, or a bent component following impact damage. Braking performance and rear lamp function should also form part of the pre-purchase checks given the recorded history. With the 2025 stop lamp failure rectified as a PRS repair, it is worth confirming both rear bulbs illuminate crisply with the first pedal application and that the high-level third brake lamp is also functional, as corrosion in the lamp holders is a common Transit Custom issue. On the test drive, apply the brakes firmly from speed and check for any pulling to one side, pedal judder, or binding after release, and listen for any grinding or scraping from the rear which would indicate seized caliper slides or worn pads. Finally, examine the nearside front suspension comprehensively for play in the wishbone bushes, anti-roll bar links and track rod ends, and check the offside front strut for any signs of oil misting or corrosion at the spring seat, all of which would align with the recorded advisory and would warrant negotiation on price or pre-purchase rectification.