2016 Ford Transit Custom 290 ECO-Tech 2.2L Diesel · LE16 FEX

The most recent DVSA MOT carried out on 11 April 2026 recorded a full pass with no recorded defects, and this outcome is consistent with the six‑year MOT record which shows consecutive passes in 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022 and 2019. The absence of any advisory or failure over this period indicates a stable maintenance regime, with no evident deterioration in the areas inspected by the test. While the MOT does not capture all aspects of vehicle condition, the clean history suggests that the principal safety‑critical components have been kept within acceptable limits. At ten years old the Transit has logged 142,305 miles, averaging roughly 14,200 miles per annum. This annual usage is above the typical private‑owner average but not excessive for a light commercial vehicle that is likely to have been employed for regular haulage or service work. The steady accumulation of mileage, without large unexplained gaps, points to continuous use rather than long periods of storage. Consequently, consumables such as suspension bushings, engine mounts, brake discs and pads, and drivetrain bearings will have experienced proportionate wear and should be inspected for thinning, corrosion or loss of compliance. For a vehicle of this age and mileage the buyer should give particular attention to tyre condition, not merely tread depth but also sidewall integrity, as rubber perishes after six to ten years regardless of mileage. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or bulges and verify that the tyre age (DOT code) does not exceed the recommended service life. Inspect the suspension components – especially the front lower wishbone bushes, rear leaf‑spring shackles and any anti‑roll bar links – for any play, cracking or excessive movement, which can manifest as clunking noises over bumps. Check the brake discs for surface scoring, rust pitting or uneven wear, and confirm that the pads retain sufficient thickness; a pulsating pedal or shudder under moderate braking would indicate disc or pad issues that may need resurfacing or replacement. Given the vehicle’s calendar age, assess the health of the 12 V lead‑acid battery for sulphation or reduced cranking power, and look for any signs of fluid leakage around the engine, gearbox and differential – old seals can dry out and begin to leak after several hundred thousand miles. Verify that the coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid have been changed within the manufacturers’ intervals, as fluid degradation can lead to corrosion and reduced performance. During a test drive listen for any abnormal engine noises, monitor for vibration at idle or under load, and watch for any hesitation or loss of power that could hint at wear in the timing chain, fuel system or turbocharger. A thorough visual inspection of the under‑carriage for rust, especially around the chassis rails and mounting points, will also reveal whether the vehicle has been exposed to prolonged standing or harsh environments. Addressing these points will give the prospective buyer a realistic picture of the Transit’s remaining service life and any imminent maintenance that may be required.