2012 Ford Transit 2.4L Diesel · HJ12 UPK

The 2012 Ford Transit in question has demonstrated a clear improvement in roadworthiness over the past two years, with the most recent MOT in September 2025 at 91,364 miles passing without any defects—a stark contrast to the September 2024 failure, which revealed multiple serious issues. The September 2024 test uncovered excessive wear in both front anti-roll bar bushes and the near-side ball joint, alongside structural corrosion at the rear and lighting faults, all of which were absent in the subsequent pass. While the September 2023 test showed advisories for an oil leak, corroded brake pipe, and a faulty registration plate lamp, these were not repeated in later tests, suggesting they were addressed. The absence of defects in the last two consecutive MOTs indicates that recent maintenance has been effective, though the earlier failures highlight that suspension and structural components had previously been neglected. The vehicle’s mileage accumulation—averaging around 6,526 miles per year over its 14-year lifespan—aligns with typical usage for its age, neither excessively high nor abnormally low. The gap between the 2022 and 2023 tests (approximately 3,600 miles over 12 months) suggests a period of lighter use or potential inactivity, while the sharp increase to 90,000 miles by September 2024 implies a return to regular operation. The most concerning period was the rapid deterioration between the 2023 and 2024 tests, where mileage rose by 3,377 miles in just 12 months, coinciding with the failure of critical suspension and structural elements. This spike may reflect deferred maintenance or a change in ownership, as the severity of the faults in September 2024 suggests long-standing neglect rather than gradual wear. For a prospective buyer, the most urgent areas to inspect in person are the suspension components, particularly the anti-roll bar bushes and ball joints, which failed in 2024 and may still require replacement given their critical role in handling and stability. Structural corrosion at the near-side rear, though not deemed to compromise rigidity in the MOT, should be closely examined for hidden rust penetration that could affect safety or longevity. The previous oil leaks—originating from the sump gasket—should also be verified, as repeated leaks can indicate gasket failure or engine block wear. Additionally, the lighting system, which has shown intermittent faults in registration and stop lamps, should be fully tested to ensure all bulbs and wiring are intact. While the vehicle has clearly improved under recent care, these recurring issues point to a history of deferred maintenance that may recur if not thoroughly addressed.