2021 Ford Transit Custom 300LEADER Eblue 2.0L Diesel · FL71 AEZ

The recorded MOT history for this 2021 Ford Transit Custom presents a notably sparse and reassuring picture, with only two test entries on file and both resulting in pass certificates. The most recent assessment on 5 November 2025 returned a clean pass with no advisories, defects, or failure points recorded, suggesting that at the point of testing the vehicle met all statutory roadworthiness requirements across every category, from brakes and suspension through to lights, tyres, and emissions. The earlier test on 11 September 2024 also resulted in a pass, though it flagged a single advisory concerning a missing nearside rear bump stop. A bump stop is a rubber or polyurethane buffer mounted within the suspension strut assembly that prevents metal-to-metal contact between the chassis and axle under full compression, so its absence on one side means that side is no longer cushioned during heavy loading, sharp impacts, or maximum suspension travel. The fact that this advisory has not reappeared and the latest test is entirely clean indicates the component was likely replaced, though it warrants physical confirmation under the rear of the vehicle during inspection. With 71,016 miles recorded against a vehicle that is approximately five years old, this Transit Custom is averaging around 14,200 miles per year, which sits firmly above the typical mileage curve for a light commercial van of this age. Light commercial vehicles of this type commonly accumulate high mileages as working tools, and while the figures are not extreme for the segment, they do imply sustained and consistent operational use rather than occasional or seasonal deployment. The gap between the September 2024 test and the November 2025 test is slightly longer than the standard twelve-month cycle, which could reflect either a delayed retest date or the MOT remaining in date from the prior certificate, but there is no indication of a prolonged off-road period or statutory removal from use. Mechanically, this level of annual mileage means that consumable items such as front brake pads, discs, tyres, and clutch components will have experienced significant wear relative to a lower-mileage equivalent, and drivetrain components including the dual-mass flywheel, turbocharger, and DMF-related inputs warrant closer scrutiny during any pre-purchase evaluation. The suspension, steering, and engine mount bushes will also have been subjected to continuous loading cycles typical of commercial operation, including frequent laden driving over speed bumps, potholes, and uneven site surfaces. Given the advisory history, a prospective buyer should give particular attention to the rear suspension assembly on the nearside, specifically inspecting the area around the rear spring or strut mounting for the presence of a properly seated bump stop and confirming that it matches the offside component. Even if a replacement has been fitted, it is worth checking for symmetry and correct orientation, and verifying that there is no evidence of coil spring deformation, cracked spring seats, or damaged shock absorber dust covers, since a missing bump stop can permit excessive axle articulation that stresses surrounding components over time. On a test drive, listen for any metallic clunk or harsh bottoming-out noise from the rear under load, particularly when driving over speed bumps, into potholes, or when the vehicle is heavily laden, as this would suggest the suspension is reaching its mechanical limits without proper cushioning. Pay close attention to whether the rear end sits level and whether the ride height is consistent from side to side, since uneven compression behaviour can also indicate worn springs or dampers on a van of this age and mileage. Beyond the specific advisory, the high annual mileage profile demands a thorough inspection of the braking system, including checking the front brake pad and disc thickness for remaining service life, examining the rear brake shoes or pads for wear, and verifying that the caliper slide pins and guide bushes are free and lubricated, given the heat cycling associated with frequent commercial stopping. Inspect the tyres for even tread wear across both axles, as inner shoulder wear on a Transit Custom can point to worn front wishbone bushes or top mounts, which are common failure items on this platform at this mileage range. Under the bonnet, check for any signs of oil misting or weeping from the engine and turbocharger seals, and inspect the coolant and power steering hoses for signs of perishing or leakage at the jubilee clips. Listen during startup for any timing chain rattle, which has been reported on some diesel variants of this era, and on the road note any signs of clutch slip under load, delayed gear engagement, or excessive vibration through the steering wheel, all of which would be consistent with the mechanical demands placed on a working van accumulating mileage at this rate.