2018 Ford Transit Connect 1.5L Diesel · JB67 BAS

The most recent MOT, dated 15 August 2024, resulted in a failure for the off‑side front headlamp on dipped beam and the off‑side front position lamp. Prior to that, the vehicle recorded clean passes in August 2023, July 2022 and March 2021, indicating an otherwise stable maintenance record. The emergence of two lighting faults in the latest test suggests a lapse in routine electrical upkeep rather than a systemic deterioration of the mechanical components. At eight years old the Transit Connect has logged 114,406 miles, averaging roughly 14,300 miles per annum. This figure is above the typical UK fleet average for a van of this age and points to a relatively heavy usage pattern. Sustained high mileage accelerates wear on suspension bushings, engine bearings, clutch plates and brake components, and it also raises the likelihood of corrosion in the chassis and exhaust system, especially if the vehicle has spent periods idle between trips. The immediate priority is to resolve the lighting failures. Verify that the off‑side headlamp bulb is the correct specification and that the filament is intact; a burnt‑out bulb is the most common cause, but a faulty socket, corroded connector or blown fuse can also prevent illumination. Inspect the position lamp assembly for cracked lenses, loose wiring harnesses or corrosion at the terminal block, and confirm that the ground strap is secure. During a test drive listen for any intermittent flicker or dimming, which would indicate a wiring fault that could affect other circuits such as the side‑marker or indicator lights. Given the high mileage and age, a thorough physical appraisal is advisable. Examine the tyre tread depth and sidewall condition for cracking or dry‑rot, as prolonged storage can degrade rubber even with low wear. Check the 12 V battery for electrolyte level (if serviceable) and perform a load test to ensure it can sustain the vehicle’s electrical demands. Inspect the brake discs for scoring, rust pockets or uneven wear, and verify that the calipers move freely without binding; any shudder or pulling under braking would merit disc resurfacing or replacement. Look over the suspension – particularly the front coil springs, lower control arm bushes and shock absorbers – for signs of leakage, sag or excessive play, which can manifest as clunking over bumps. Finally, confirm that the service history shows timely oil, filter and coolant changes, as calendar‑based fluid degradation can be as detrimental as mileage‑based wear. Addressing these items will give a prospective buyer a clear picture of the van’s roadworthiness and the likely cost of bringing it to optimal condition.