2009 Ford Transit 2.4L Diesel · DX09 CKA

The most recent MOT on 3 July 2025 was a pass, albeit with a minor fault for the off‑side registration‑plate lamp and an advisory noting the rear brake disc is worn, pitted or scored. Earlier in the same year the vehicle failed on the 1 July test due to a serious rear‑brake‑pad thickness defect, a faulty rear‑reflector and a non‑functioning engine‑mil warning lamp, while the 2024 tests recorded a series of advisories for oil leakage, shock‑absorber oil mist, steering‑rack play and brake‑pipe corrosion. Overall the trend is moving from outright failures in 2024‑25 towards a passing result in 2025, but the persistence of multiple advisories indicates that the underlying condition remains marginal and will require attention to prevent a return to failure. At 198,745 miles the van averages roughly 11,700 miles per year over its 17‑year life, which is typical for a work‑type vehicle of this age. The mileage does not suggest any prolonged periods of inactivity, so wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes, suspension bushings and drivetrain components is likely to be proportional to use rather than calendar ageing alone. However, the high cumulative distance means that items with a service life tied to mileage – for example brake pads, discs, shock absorbers, steering rack joints and engine seals – are approaching or have exceeded their expected service intervals and should be inspected closely. When you inspect the vehicle, give particular focus to the rear braking system: the pads are already below the 1.5 mm minimum and the discs show surface pitting, so expect reduced braking efficiency, possible pedal pulsation and a higher likelihood of squeal or shudder under hard braking. Verify the thickness of the front discs, check for any uneven wear that could indicate stuck calipers, and look for fluid on the rear brake pipe and surrounding brackets, as corrosion and grease build‑up can lead to leaks or reduced hydraulic performance. Examine the off‑side rear shock absorber for oil seepage and feel for any bottoming‑out or excessive bounce during a short test‑drive over a speed bump; similar misting on the near‑side shock suggests both units may be nearing the end of their service life. The steering rack inner joint on the off‑side shows play, which can manifest as a vague steering feel, occasional clunk when turning at low speed, or uneven tyre wear – check for any looseness by rocking the wheel at the rack and listening for metallic noises. The oil leak noted in 2024 should be located; even a modest seepage can lead to oil starvation of the timing chain or valve train over time, so a visual inspection of the valve‑cover gasket and oil pan seals is advisable. Beyond the recorded defects, age‑related checks are essential. Inspect all four tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot or uneven tread wear that could be a symptom of mis‑alignment from the steering‑rack play. Verify the 12‑volt battery’s cranking voltage and look for signs of sulphation, especially if the van has spent long periods idle. Examine the chassis and under‑seal for any rust beyond the minor corrosion already noted, paying particular attention to mounting points for the engine, suspension and steering components. Finally, confirm that the service history shows regular oil and filter changes, coolant flushes and brake fluid replacement – fluids degrade with time even if mileage is modest, and old brake fluid can contribute to the corrosion observed on the brake pipe. Addressing these items before purchase will give a clearer picture of the van’s remaining useful life and help avoid unexpected breakdowns.