2017 Ford Transit 2.0L Diesel · GL67 LLJ

Persistent front suspension wear is the defining mechanical theme for this 2017 Ford Transit, with the near and offside front suspension arm rear bushes flagged as worn across three consecutive tests on 28 November 2025, 7 December 2024 and the most recent pass. While none of these advisories resulted in immediate failure, the repetition over consecutive years suggests the bushes are steadily degrading and may be approaching the point where movement becomes excessive under test conditions. The 2025 test also recorded a failure for a non-functioning nearside front dipped beam headlamp and an inoperative front windscreen washer, both of which are straightforward electrical faults that were likely rectified to allow the same-day pass recorded on the same date. Apart from the suspension items, the broader MOT history is reasonably clean, with only minor advisories over the preceding years, notably a nearside front tyre worn close to the legal limit in November 2022 and a note that the front brake pads looked low in November 2020. No corrosion, brake pipe, structural, exhaust, or steering component failures have been recorded during the documented testing period. The recorded mileage of 103,590 miles across approximately nine years equates to an average of around 11,500 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a working van of this type. There are no extended gaps between MOT tests, no periods of apparent inactivity, and no sudden anomalies in the mileage progression that would point to clocked readings or extended lay-ups. This continuous usage pattern is consistent with a vehicle that has been in regular service rather than one left standing, which means the mechanical wear recorded, particularly on suspension components and tyres, is likely to reflect genuine accumulated use rather than age-related deterioration alone. For a prospective buyer, the priority during inspection should be a thorough evaluation of the front suspension. With the rear bushes of both front suspension arms flagged as worn across multiple consecutive MOT tests, a test drive should include careful listening for clonks, knocks or rattling from the front end over uneven surfaces, speed bumps, and during sharp direction changes. The steering should be checked for any vagueness, wandering, or uneven self-centring, and the front wheels should be examined with the vehicle jacked to confirm any free play at the suspension arm pivots. The November 2020 advisory regarding low front brake pad material also warrants a current inspection of pad thickness, disc condition, and any binding or uneven wear on the front calipers, given the mileage now recorded. Any uneven or stepped wear on the front tyres would suggest the suspension geometry has been compromised by worn bushes and would strengthen the case for immediate replacement. Finally, it is worth confirming that the headlamp and washer faults recorded at the 2025 failure were properly resolved rather than temporarily patched, and that all exterior lighting, washer jets, and wiper function are fully operational at the time of viewing. Beyond the documented items, the underside should be inspected for any developing corrosion on the subframe, brake lines, and suspension components, particularly given that this is a working vehicle approaching nine years of service. A hoist inspection at a garage prior to purchase is strongly advisable, as MOT advisories represent only what the tester could see from the ramp and do not constitute a comprehensive mechanical inspection. The recurring front suspension arm bush advisories are the most significant item to budget for in any short-term maintenance plan.