2019 Ford Transit Custom 2.0L Diesel · LM19 CFF

The most recent DVSA examination on 15 December 2025 resulted in a Pass, although the same date also records a Fail issued for a nearside front headlamp not functioning on dipped beam, classified as a dangerous defect. This item is likely to have been a simple bulb or electrical connection fault, but the fact that the vehicle returned to the test station on the same day and subsequently achieved a clean Pass suggests the rectification was carried out promptly. Looking at the broader history, however, the pattern is not quite as reassuring as the latest pass alone might imply. The 7 January 2025 test produced a Fail with three major defects, two of which related to the offside headlamp (inoperative dipped beam and inability to test beam aim), alongside a significant safety issue where the offside rear brake hose was excessively twisted and fouling the leaf spring. The fact that headlamp failures have now appeared on two consecutive tests across both sides of the vehicle is a minor concern, suggesting either ageing wiring, connector corrosion, or repeated minor bulb failures that the owner should be asked to evidence through repair invoices. A further Fail in March 2023 noted severely worn front brake pads down to the wear indicator, deep cuts in both front tyres exposing plies, and an advisory for worn drive shaft joints. While each individual failure may have been addressed, the recurrence of lighting issues specifically warrants careful inspection at the point of purchase. The recorded mileage of 60,567 miles over a seven-year working life equates to approximately 8,652 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this type and age, although somewhat low for a commercial van that may have been used for regular deliveries or trades work. The MOT history shows a noticeable gap between the March 2023 test and the January 2025 test, suggesting either reduced use or a period of non-testing, possibly due to the vehicle being off the road or undergoing light duties. This kind of gap is not unusual for commercial vehicles but is worth probing with the seller to confirm that servicing continued regardless of MOT cycles. The lower annual mileage does reduce the likelihood of high wear on major drivetrain components, but it can also bring its own concerns where standing periods cause corrosion, fluid degradation, and seized mechanisms. Given the recurring brake and suspension-related advisories, particular attention should be paid to the offside rear brake hose and its routing around the leaf spring, an issue specifically flagged in January 2025. Although the vehicle passed subsequently, brake hoses can degrade internally and externally over time, and a twisted hose is at risk of cracking under load, leading to soft pedals or fluid leaks. On a test drive, listen for clonks or squeaks from the rear suspension over bumps, and check that the handbrake holds the vehicle on an incline. The 2022 advisory regarding the offside front drive shaft flexible coupling and the nearside front CV boot deterioration should be followed up, as perished boots allow grease to escape and water ingress to contaminate the joint, producing a clicking or knocking noise on full lock, particularly noticeable when manoeuvring at low speed. A borescope inspection of the CV boots or a visual check for fresh grease deposits around the joint is advisable, and any whining or clicking from the front axle during the test drive should be treated seriously. Beyond the recorded history, a 2019 Transit Custom with this mileage profile deserves the usual age-related inspections regardless of its MOT record. The front tyres were flagged as close to the legal limit and kerbed in January 2025, so confirm that replacements have been fitted and inspect the current sidewalls for cracking or perishing, which is common on vans that have spent time parked in sunlight. Check the front brake discs, as the 2022 advisory noted wear and these may now be approaching the minimum thickness or showing lipping. With a 2019 registration, the 12-volt battery is approaching the end of its typical service life and may struggle in colder months, so a voltage and load test is worthwhile. Coolant and brake fluid degrade over calendar years rather than mileage, and both should be confirmed as recently changed, with the service book inspected for evidence of cambelt or timing chain attention, oil change intervals, and any transmission servicing. Finally, examine the underbody and suspension bushes for standing corrosion, check that all doors and the load area latch securely, and verify that the exhaust system is free from blow and securely mounted, as commercial vans frequently carry heavy loads that accelerate mounting bracket wear.