2020 Ford Transit Custom 280LIMITD Eblue 2.0L Diesel · HM09 DSM

Braking system wear is the defining mechanical theme running through this Transit Custom's record, culminating in a failed test on 18 February 2026 when the brake servo was recorded as inoperative — a dangerous defect — alongside service brake efficiency below requirements and a nearside front wiper that failed to clear the windscreen effectively. The vehicle was retested nine days later on 27 February 2026 and passed with no defects recorded, indicating the faults were rectified, but the failure was serious in nature: an inoperative servo means dramatically increased pedal effort and extended stopping distances. Earlier tests show a progressive build-up of brake wear, with both rear brake pads flagged as wearing thin in March 2024 and both front discs noted as worn, though not excessively, in March 2025. The 2023 test also recorded all four tyres with worn sidewalls and the nearside front worn close to the legal limit and in poor condition, so the overall trend is one of consumable components being run to their limits before attention, rather than a clean bill of health. At 69,281 miles over roughly six years, the van has averaged about 11,500 miles per year, which is typical for a working vehicle of this type and consistent with steady commercial use rather than long periods standing idle. Tests have occurred annually each March from 2023 to 2025, with the 2026 test brought forward to February, and there are no unexplained gaps in the record. This mileage profile means the braking and tyre wear recorded is unsurprising for the distance covered, but it also means a buyer should assume other wear items not yet flagged — clutch, suspension bushes, and wheel bearings — are approaching the point where inspection is worthwhile. Given the servo failure and repeated brake advisories, the braking system warrants the closest scrutiny before purchase. Confirm in writing that the servo, master cylinder, and associated vacuum or hydraulic components were replaced or repaired following the February 2026 failure, and ask for invoices. On a test drive, the pedal should feel firm and consistent without excessive travel; any sponginess, hissing from the servo area, or a pedal that sinks under sustained pressure should be treated as a red flag. Brake hard from moderate speed in a safe area and feel for judder through the pedal or steering wheel, which would suggest the front discs flagged as worn in 2025 have since warped or worn further, and listen for grinding or squeal that would indicate the rear pads noted in 2024 were not replaced. The tyre history also deserves attention: all four tyres were flagged for sidewall wear in 2023, which on a van of this type is often consistent with kerb contact or under-inflation under load. Inspect the current tyres for sidewall cracking, bulges, or uneven shoulder wear, and check tread depth across the full width rather than just the visible outer edge. Uneven wear patterns on the front tyres would additionally warrant a check of front suspension bushes and tracking. Finally, verify the nearside front wiper now clears the screen properly, and given the van's working life, a general inspection underneath for corrosion on brake pipes and suspension mounting points would be prudent even though no structural corrosion has been recorded to date.