2021 Ford Transit 350 Trend Ecoblue 2.0L Diesel · LG71 OOU

This Ford Transit’s most recent MOT, conducted just 11 months ago on 15 September 2025, confirms it passed without defects, though the preceding test on 11 September 2025—just four days earlier—revealed critical issues that required immediate attention. The failure was not merely procedural but mechanical: the engine malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) was inoperative or misfiring, the front brake pads were dangerously thin, and the nearside front suspension ball joint exhibited noticeable play. While the vehicle was subsequently cleared of defects, the rapid succession of tests suggests either a rushed or incomplete repair cycle. The 2024 test at 38,659 miles also flagged front brake pad wear, indicating this has been a persistent issue rather than an isolated incident. The trend is not improving—it remains a concern that has been deferred rather than resolved. The recorded mileage of 49,929 miles at the latest test suggests an average of approximately 9,986 miles per year , which aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age. There are no significant gaps in the MOT history, and the mileage progression between tests (around 11,000 miles between 2024 and 2025) appears consistent. However, the four-day interval between the failed and passed tests in September 2025 is unusual and may imply either a last-minute repair or a test retake after minor adjustments. No evidence of prolonged inactivity or excessive wear is evident from the mileage alone. A buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the front suspension , particularly the nearside ball joint, which showed play in September 2025. The repeated front brake pad wear—flagged in both 2024 and 2025—demands verification of current thickness and condition, as thin pads increase stopping distances and risk caliper binding. The engine MIL failure in the September 2025 test is a red flag; while it may have been rectified, a diagnostic check for underlying catalytic converter, oxygen sensor, or injector faults is essential. Structural corrosion around wheel arches, suspension mounts, and the subframe should also be scrutinised, as this van model is prone to rust in these areas. The registration plate lamp failure, though minor, indicates potential neglect of minor electrical components—something to cross-check during the inspection.