2016 Ford Transit 2.2L Diesel · EJ16 EYT

The December 2025 MOT at 185,413 miles shows a vehicle that passed but with multiple active brake-related advisories—front and rear discs pitted, a corroded/retreated brake pipe, and the brake warning light illuminated. This follows a clean January 2025 test at 157,195 miles, suggesting the brake issues emerged or worsened rapidly between tests, likely due to delayed attention. The pattern of recurring brake faults—disc wear and pad thinning—dates back to December 2022, indicating a long-standing trend of neglect in this critical system. While no major structural or safety-critical failures appear, the persistence of brake advisories and the corroded pipe imply inconsistent maintenance, particularly in fluid and hydraulic components. The Transit’s mileage accumulation is aggressive for its age, averaging around 18,500 miles annually, with a notable jump of 28,218 miles between December 2023 (140,193) and December 2025 (185,413). This suggests either heavy commercial use or a period of high mileage in the past two years. The December 2022 tests at 122,897 miles—both a pass and a fail—reveal a history of tyre and washer system neglect, with front tyres worn to legal limits and rear tyres perishing. The lack of recorded defects in January 2025 at 157,195 miles is unusual given the prior trend, raising questions about whether critical issues were addressed or simply missed during testing. A buyer should prioritise an immediate brake inspection, focusing on the hydraulic system for leaks, corrosion, or binding calipers, as well as the condition of all four discs and pads. The recurring disc pitting and pad wear suggest uneven braking or seized components, which could lead to premature failure. Suspension components—particularly bushes and coil springs—should be checked for wear, given the high mileage, while the oil leak noted in 2023 may have contributed to engine longevity risks if unresolved. Tyres, though not currently flagged, warrant scrutiny for uneven wear patterns, as the 2022 history of edge wear and perishing hints at alignment or pressure issues. Finally, the washer system failure in 2022, if not rectified, could impair visibility in wet conditions.