2009 Ford Transit 2.4L Diesel · LL09 EUJ

The most recent MOT test on 12 February 2026 resulted in a pass, but it should be noted that this pass was issued on the same date as a failure, indicating that rectification work was carried out at the test station prior to re-presenting the vehicle. The failure items, all categorised as PRS (pass after rectification at station), included an inoperative engine management indicator lamp (MIL), which is a significant concern as it suggests either a current engine management fault or a tampered lamp that would mask active diagnostic trouble codes, and a nearside front headlamp aimed too low, which is a straightforward adjustment but indicates possible suspension settlement or incorrect bulb seating. Several advisories were also raised at this test, notably widespread vehicle and underbody structural corrosion (though not yet reducing structural rigidity significantly), slight play in the offside front outer track rod end, a corroded rear brake pipe, and a slight leak from the nearside rear hub seal. Looking at the broader pattern across the last four years, the trend is clearly one of progressive deterioration rather than stable maintenance, with advisories for corrosion, brake pipe corrosion, track rod end play, and front wheel bearing play appearing or worsening at successive tests, alongside repeated engine MIL illumination and recurring brake and suspension component wear. The recorded mileage of 151,917 miles over approximately 17 years equates to an average annual usage of around 8,936 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and one that has likely seen a mix of commercial and private use consistent with the Ford Transit's working vehicle heritage. The mileage accumulation appears relatively steady across the recorded test history, with no evidence of long periods of standing unused that would raise particular concerns about seized calipers, perished tyres, or severe underbody corrosion from inactivity. However, at this accumulated mileage, the mechanical condition of major drivetrain and suspension components will be heavily dependent on service and replacement history, and the recorded defects suggest that some areas have not been addressed in a timely manner. The near-annual testing frequency implies the vehicle has been in regular use rather than laid up for extended periods. The recurring and accumulating advisories warrant close attention from any prospective buyer. The front wheel bearing play noted on the offside in both 2024 and 2025, and the anti-roll bar ball joint play in 2025, indicate progressive wear in the front suspension and steering assembly, and these components should be inspected for worsening play, with attention to any knocking or rumbling noises from the front end on a test drive, particularly over uneven surfaces. The track rod end play flagged in 2026 should also be addressed, as worn steering linkages can cause vague or wandering steering and uneven tyre wear, particularly on the inside or outside edges of the front tyres. The recurring brake pipe corrosion advisories across multiple tests are a notable concern; corrosion of brake pipes is a common age-related issue on Transits and can progress to the point of leakage or structural failure, so a thorough inspection of all brake lines, including those concealed behind bodywork, is essential. The slight rear hub seal leak and the offside rear oil leak should be monitored, as neglected seals can lead to bearing failure or reduced oil levels. In addition to the advisories, the repeated engine MIL illumination across the 2024 and 2026 tests is the most significant concern and warrants a full diagnostic scan at an independent specialist to identify any stored fault codes, particularly relating to emissions systems such as the lambda sensor, EGR valve, or DPF if fitted, which are common failure points on diesel Transits of this era. The structural and underbody corrosion noted, while not yet reducing rigidity, is a clear indicator that the vehicle is approaching the age and condition where corrosion becomes a serious structural and safety concern, and a thorough examination on a ramp is strongly recommended to assess the extent and progression rate. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for any suspension clonks over speed humps and rough roads, check for brake shudder or pulling under braking, monitor for any warning lights on the dashboard, and verify that the steering operates smoothly without excessive free play. It would also be prudent to confirm the service history, as with this mileage the timing belt, clutch, dual-mass flywheel if manual, and turbocharger if fitted will be approaching or past expected replacement intervals, and the absence of documented servicing should be treated as a basis for negotiation or pre-purchase rectification.