2011 Ford Transit 2.4L Diesel · LL11 LOJ

The most recent MOT test for this 2011 Ford Transit, conducted on 2026-05-29, resulted in a clean pass with no recorded defects, marking a positive turnaround from its previous failures. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues that suggest underlying wear and potential long-term concerns. The 2024-03-12 failure highlighted severe tyre damage, excessive rear brake fluctuation, and severely worn rear anti-roll bar bushes, indicating that these components have been compromised over time. While the 2025-05-29 test recorded several advisories—particularly regarding worn suspension bushes and anti-roll bar components—these were classified as non-critical, likely due to the vehicle’s age and mileage. The 2026-05-28 failure, though a major failure, was resolved by addressing the fuel pipe leak, which is a straightforward repair but underscores the need for vigilance over fluid integrity and structural integrity in the fuel system. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 92,050 miles at the time of this assessment is consistent with typical usage for a 15-year-old Transit, averaging around 6,137 miles per year. This rate suggests moderate to heavy usage over its lifetime, which accelerates wear on consumables like tyres, brakes, and suspension components. The absence of significant mileage gaps indicates sustained operational use, which may have contributed to the observed wear progression in the anti-roll bars, suspension bushes, and rear brakes. However, the rapid accumulation of mileage—particularly if recent years have seen higher usage—could have exacerbated pre-existing wear, necessitating closer inspection of these critical systems to prevent premature failure. Given the vehicle’s history of severe tyre damage and recurring brake-related issues, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the tyres, brakes, and suspension during the test drive. The nearside and offside front and rear tyres show signs of significant wear, with the 2024 failure indicating cuts that exposed the ply or cords, which are critical indicators of structural compromise. On a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, pulsations, or binding, which may suggest warped discs, binding calipers, or internal brake failure. Additionally, check for excessive play in the suspension, particularly around the front and rear anti-roll bars, which may cause clunking or rattling when driving over bumps. Inspect the rear brakes for excessive heat discolouration or glazing, which could signal overheating or fading, and verify that the brake fluid is clear and free of contamination, as brake fluid absorbs moisture over time and can lead to hydraulic failure. For the suspension components, focus on the worn bushes and anti-roll bar pins, which were flagged as advisories in previous tests. Visually inspect the suspension arms and anti-roll bars for signs of excessive elongation or cracking, and check for fluid leaks around these components, as oil or grease contamination can accelerate wear. The offside rear service brake fluctuation advisory from 2024 suggests potential issues with the rear brake system, including warped discs, seized brake shoes, or a failing brake master cylinder. Test for brake shudder by applying pressure to the pedal while driving at moderate speeds, which may reveal vibrations or a spongy feel. The fuel pipe leak from the 2026-05-28 MOT failure also warrants attention, as prolonged exposure to fuel vapours can corrode the vehicle’s interior and electrical systems. Ensure the fuel system is securely fastened and inspect the fuel tank for signs of corrosion or damage. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, check the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise structural integrity, and verify that the 12V battery is fully charged and free of corrosion on the terminals. If possible, consult the service records to confirm that scheduled maintenance, such as fluid top-ups and filter replacements, has been conducted at the manufacturer-recommended intervals.