2022 Ford Transit Courier 1.0L Petrol · DS72 UXR

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2022 Ford Transit Courier was conducted on 2025-12-12, resulting in a failure, which contrasts sharply with the previous test on the same date in 2025, where the vehicle passed. The failure highlights a concerning escalation in critical issues, particularly the dangerous condition of the offside rear tyre exhibiting a bulge indicative of structural failure or separation, a defect that poses an immediate risk to roadworthiness. Additionally, the presence of mismatched rear tyres on the same axle—another major failure—suggests either improper installation or a lack of attention to wheel alignment and tyre compatibility, which can exacerbate uneven wear and compromise handling. While the front windscreen issues remain minor and non-critical, the progression from a passing to a failing MOT underscores a potential decline in maintenance discipline or underlying mechanical degradation that warrants immediate scrutiny. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 25,736 miles for a four-year-old model represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,434 miles per year, which is within the expected range for this age and class of vehicle. However, the absence of a clear maintenance schedule or service history beyond the MOT tests makes it difficult to determine whether this mileage accumulation reflects typical operational use or periods of prolonged inactivity. Higher mileage generally accelerates wear on consumables such as brake pads, suspension components, and exhaust system parts, while lower mileage may indicate standing conditions that can lead to corrosion in brake systems, caliper binding, or fluid degradation over time. The sudden failure of the offside rear tyre, however, suggests that either the vehicle was subjected to excessive stress or that underlying structural integrity issues were not addressed proactively. Given the recent MOT failures, the prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough mechanical inspection to address the critical defects identified. The offside rear tyre bulge is a severe warning sign that may indicate underlying tyre or bead damage, potentially stemming from improper installation, excessive load, or road debris impacts. During a test drive, listen for unusual tyre noise, check for excessive vibration or pulling to the left, and inspect the tyre for any signs of heat damage or further separation. The mismatched rear tyres must be rectified immediately, as they compromise load distribution and handling stability. Additionally, verify that the reversing lamp is functional, as its inoperability poses a direct safety hazard during vehicle operation. Beyond these immediate concerns, the buyer should also inspect the suspension for signs of worn bushes or coil springs, which could exacerbate the tyre wear patterns noted in the advisories, and examine the brake system for corrosion or binding calipers, especially given the vehicle’s standing history. For the buyer’s practical inspection, given the vehicle’s age and moderate mileage, focus on both mechanical wear and calendar-based maintenance. Check the front and rear tyres for sidewall perishing or cracking, which can occur even at lower mileages due to prolonged exposure to UV light and temperature fluctuations. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and the battery’s overall condition, as standing vehicles are prone to battery drain or failure. Verify that the brake discs are free from corrosion or binding, and test the brake pedal for firmness and fluid levels in the master cylinder reservoir, as standing can lead to brake fluid absorption of moisture, reducing effectiveness. Lastly, ensure that all fluids—oil, coolant, and transmission fluid—are topped up and free from contamination, as these degrade over time regardless of mileage. If the vehicle has not undergone a full service within the manufacturer’s recommended intervals, schedule one promptly to address any hidden wear or potential issues not flagged by the MOT.