2018 Ford Transit Custom 2.0L Diesel · HIB 22

Persistent corrosion across the braking system represents the primary mechanical concern for this Ford Transit Custom, with a recurring pattern of advisories regarding brake pipe deterioration. The most recent test on 16 June 2026 shows that all four brake pipes—nearside front, offside front, nearside rear, and offside rear—are recorded as corroded and covered in grease or other material. This issue has been noted intermittently since at least June 2022, indicating a long-term trend of degradation in the hydraulic lines that has progressed from specific sections to the entire perimeter of the vehicle. The vehicle has covered 79,913 miles over its approximately eight-year lifespan, averaging roughly 9,989 miles per year. This level of annual accumulation is consistent with typical light-to-medium commercial usage for a vehicle of this age. While this mileage does not suggest extreme heavy-duty work, the consistent annual movement means that wear on consumable components like suspension bushes and tyres is expected, as evidenced by the 2025 advisory regarding a worn nearside front suspension arm bush and a cut tyre. A prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system's structural integrity. The repeated advisories for corroded brake pipes suggest that while the lines have been treated with grease, the underlying metalwork is oxidizing. During a test drive, pay close attention to the brake pedal feel; any sponginess, a soft pedal, or a change in pressure could indicate that the corrosion is compromising the hydraulic integrity of the lines. Additionally, check for any uneven braking or pulling to one side, which might suggest that the corrosion is affecting flow or that a caliper is binding due to line restriction. The 2025 advisory regarding the nearside front suspension arm bush separation warrants specific attention to the vehicle's handling characteristics. On the test drive, listen for knocking, clunking, or creaking sounds when traversing uneven surfaces or turning the steering wheel at low speeds. Any wandering sensation through the steering or a lack of precision in direction changes could be symptomatic of the reported bush wear. Furthermore, the windscreen damage noted in the June 2026 test should be verified to ensure no cracks are propagating into the driver's field of vision.