2016 Ford Transit 2.0L Diesel · LD66 TPV

A pattern of corrosion-related advisories across the underbody, brakes, and exhaust is the defining mechanical characteristic of this 2016 Ford Transit, with the most recent test on 25 January 2025 passing but flagging corroded rear leaf springs, a corroded front brake pipe, a corroded rear exhaust box, worn front inner suspension arm pins or bushes, and a deteriorated offside front anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover. While none of these items resulted in failure at this examination, the recurrence of similar concerns in earlier tests indicates ongoing deterioration rather than isolated wear. The 2023 test recorded a fail with dangerous tyre cord exposure on both nearside wheels and a major anti-roll bar linkage dust cover defect, which has not been reflected in any subsequent test entry, suggesting the tyres and at least one linkage were replaced. However, the brake pipe corrosion first noted in January 2023 reappeared in January 2025 with the additional presence of grease or other material on the front pipe, indicating a continuing issue that has merely been cosmetically treated rather than resolved. With 131,685 miles recorded over a ten-year period, this Transit has covered roughly 13,170 miles annually, a high accumulation rate for a commercial vehicle of its age that places elevated demand on consumables, suspension components, braking hardware, and drivetrain bearings. There are no significant gaps in the MOT testing history to suggest extended periods off the road, and the mileage progression between tests appears consistent with steady operational use. At this mileage level, internal wear within brake calipers, wheel bearings, gearbox synchros, and clutch assemblies becomes statistically more likely, even where the MOT record itself does not directly capture such items. Prospective buyers should therefore expect that ancillary mechanical servicing beyond the scope of the annual roadworthiness test may be due or imminent. Buyers should focus their inspection on the flagged leaf spring corrosion, as the rear suspension on Transits of this generation is prone to progressive rusting at the spring eyes and U-bolt mountings, which can eventually lead to spring fracture and a sudden load shift; during a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking over uneven surfaces and visually inspect the spring packs for flaking metal or section loss. The recurring brake pipe corrosion warrants close physical examination of all underbody brake lines, particularly at jacking points, suspension cross-members, and behind the front wheels where road debris accumulates, as unchecked corrosion can lead to fluid loss and brake failure. Confirm pipe integrity by pressing along their length and checking for blistering paintwork or rust staining, and ensure pedal feel is firm without excessive travel. The suspension arm and anti-roll bar wear items noted across 2023 and 2025 suggest bush deterioration is advancing; on the test drive, listen for front-end clonks over speed humps and verify there is no wandering or vagueness in the steering, particularly under braking. Brake discs on all four corners were flagged for wear in 2022, so confirm current disc thickness and surface condition, listening for any grinding or pulsation through the pedal. Finally, examine the rear exhaust box for active blowing sounds with the engine running and check the bodywork, particularly around the rear wheel arches, sills, and under the bonnet for any structural corrosion beyond what the MOT record has captured, as commercial Transits frequently develop hidden rust in these areas.