2007 Ford Transit 2.0L Diesel · LS07 FZC

The most recent DVSA test on 25 March 2025 recorded a pass, but the same date also shows a failure for the same vehicle, indicating that the van was re‑tested after remedial work. Over the past four years the MOT history alternates between passes and failures, with a clear increase in serious advisories and defects – notably a dangerous fracture of an off‑side rear leaf‑spring in 2023, recurring oil leaks, heavily corroded brake pipes and anti‑roll‑bar linkage wear in 2022. This pattern points to a deteriorating maintenance trend rather than a stable or improving one, and suggests that the vehicle has required significant corrective work on several occasions. No reliable mileage figure is supplied, so an accurate assessment of annual usage cannot be made. For a 2007 Transit, a typical kilometre‑per‑year figure would be in the region of 15‑20 000 mi; if the van has been used less than this it may have spent long periods idle, which can exacerbate corrosion, battery degradation and rubber ageing. Conversely, if the mileage is substantially higher than average, the cumulative wear on the chassis, suspension and drivetrain would be considerable, especially given the documented leaf‑spring fracture and anti‑roll‑bar joint wear. Prospective buyers should therefore request a full service log and, if possible, a mileage reading from the instrument cluster to gauge whether the vehicle’s wear is in line with its age. When inspecting the van, pay particular attention to the structural corrosion noted on the nearside front, off‑side front and nearside rear integral body sections. Look for rust that penetrates the metal, especially around door steps, wheel wells and the floorpan, and verify that there is no flex or audible creak when the body is rocked. The off‑side rear leaf‑spring that was previously fractured must be examined for any signs of fatigue or cracking in the remaining leaves; a clunk or metallic knock over bumps would indicate lingering weakness. The anti‑roll‑bar linkages should be checked for excessive play or worn ball joints, and the brake pipes, both front and rear, must be inspected for rust, pitting or grease deposits that could compromise hydraulic integrity. Any oil seepage from the front or rear engine bays should be traced to its source – a persistent leak may herald gasket or seal failure and could eventually affect the exhaust system or cause fire hazards. Finally, verify that the engine management light is functional and that the MIL does not illuminate when the engine is running, as past failures suggest an intermittent electronic fault. Given the vehicle’s age, the tyre sidewalls should be examined for cracking, dry rot or uneven wear that may indicate mis‑alignment or suspension issues. The 12 V battery, if original, is likely beyond its optimal service life and should be load‑tested. All fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – ought to be sampled for colour, contamination and appropriate levels, as time‑based degradation can occur even with low mileage. A thorough visual inspection of the under‑body for general corrosion, especially around suspension mounting points and the exhaust system, is essential. If the van passes these checks without evident defects, negotiate a recent full service and consider budgeting for a fresh set of brake pipes, suspension bushings and a comprehensive oil change to bring the vehicle back to a reliable road‑worthy condition.