2017 Ford Transit 2.0L Diesel · LL17 TSX

The latest MOT test for this 2017 Ford Transit, conducted on 2026-02-23, resulted in a clean pass with no recorded defects, marking a positive turnaround following a series of failures and advisories over the preceding three years. While the vehicle’s recent history shows a pattern of minor and major issues—particularly around the front prop shaft joint boot and near-side front tyre tread—this most recent test indicates a significant improvement in roadworthiness, suggesting either effective corrective action or a shift in operational conditions. However, the failure to pass in 2024-05-22 due to the near-side rear tyre being below the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6mm remains a critical concern, as this defect could pose a safety risk if not addressed promptly. The vehicle’s MOT record thus reflects a mixed but improving maintenance trajectory, with recurring issues in specific areas requiring careful attention to prevent recurrence or escalation. The recorded mileage of 144,210 miles for a vehicle aged nine years is exceptionally high, translating to approximately 16,023 miles annually—a rate that far exceeds the typical usage for a commercial or fleet vehicle of this generation. Such high mileage accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and drivetrain elements, while also increasing the likelihood of issues related to prolonged exposure to environmental factors, such as road debris ingress into seals or corrosion from standing fluids. The absence of significant gaps in the MOT schedule suggests consistent use, which may explain the rapid mileage accumulation, but it also underscores the need for heightened vigilance during inspection. The prop shaft joint boot failure in 2023-2024, for instance, likely stemmed from prolonged exposure to contaminants, leading to accelerated degradation of the boot material and eventual failure to contain dirt ingress—a common cause of CV joint damage in high-mileage vehicles. For the prospective buyer, the most urgent immediate action should be to rectify the near-side rear tyre failure from the 2024 MOT, replacing it with a tyre meeting the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6mm to ensure compliance and prevent hydroplaning risks. The recurring issues with the offside front road wheel fixing and front prop shaft joint boot indicate that these components may require professional inspection or replacement, as wheel fixings can degrade over time due to vibration and corrosion, while the prop shaft joint boot failure suggests a history of seal wear or improper maintenance. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the front axle area, particularly clunking or grinding, which could indicate misalignment or bearing wear. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may signal suspension or alignment issues linked to the prop shaft joint problems. Beyond immediate defects, the buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural and fluid integrity. Given the high mileage and age, inspect the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can compromise their load-bearing capacity and safety. Check the brake system for corrosion on discs, particularly on the near-side where standing fluids may have caused rust, and ensure calipers are not binding or seized. The suspension components, including coil springs and suspension bushes, should be examined for signs of wear or leakage, as high mileage can accelerate the deterioration of these elements. Verify the condition of the 12V battery, as prolonged idling or infrequent use can lead to sulphate buildup or corrosion in terminals, reducing its lifespan. Lastly, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in recent years, consider scheduling a comprehensive inspection by a qualified mechanic to address time-based fluid servicing—such as brake fluid, differential and transmission fluids—which degrade over time and should be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every 2 to 5 years, whichever comes first.