2012 Ford Transit 2.2L Diesel · FN62 HTD

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 29 January 2024, though the historical record indicates a concerning trend regarding structural and systemic degradation. While the latest test was successful, the previous years reveal a pattern of progressive deterioration, most notably a dangerous failure in 2023 involving severe corrosion of the offside outer suspension mounting area and sill. The repeated failures and advisories related to brake pipe corrosion between 2021 and 2022 suggest a vehicle that has struggled with rust, which is a critical concern for a commercial vehicle of this vintage. With a recorded mileage of 124,292 miles over approximately 14 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 8,878 miles per year. This is considered typical usage for a Ford Transit, suggesting it has not been excessively overworked nor left to stand for prolonged periods. However, this mileage level means that high wear consumables and drivetrain components are entering a phase where replacement is likely. The combination of moderate mileage and the recorded corrosion issues suggests the vehicle may have been operated in an environment conducive to rust, such as coastal areas or on salted winter roads, which outweighs the benefit of the average mileage. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the suspension and braking systems. The latest advisories highlight wear in the front lower suspension arm bushes and rear shock absorber bushes. During a test drive, listen for clunks or knocks when traversing uneven surfaces and feel for any vagueness or instability in the steering. Given the history of major brake pipe corrosion and the dangerous structural failure of the sill and suspension mounting, a thorough underbody inspection is mandatory. Check for any fresh welding repairs or evidence of surface treatment used to mask further corrosion, and ensure that all brake pipes are free from pitting or bubbling, as the record shows a systemic issue with pipe degradation. Furthermore, the MOT history shows frequent failures related to lighting, including position lamps, reversing lamps, and registration plate lights. While these are minor electrical faults, they may indicate a general lack of preventative maintenance. Verify the current operation of all external lighting and check for any signs of water ingress in the light clusters. Finally, given the age and mileage, confirm the service history regarding timing belt and water pump intervals, as these are critical failure points. Inspect the engine bay and rear hubs for any signs of the oil leaks previously noted in 2022 to determine if the hub seals or other gaskets have been properly addressed.