2009 Ford Transit 2.2L Diesel · LS59 OGC

The most recent MOT test on 2025-10-13 resulted in a clean pass, marking a positive turnaround after a series of failures and advisories in the preceding years. While earlier tests revealed persistent issues such as brake pipe corrosion, suspension component wear, and structural leaf spring fractures, the vehicle now appears to have addressed critical failures, particularly the dangerous leaf spring fractures that caused two consecutive failures in 2022. The absence of any defects or advisories in the latest test suggests a stabilization in maintenance, though the history indicates ongoing wear-related concerns that require careful monitoring. The recurring advisories on brake pipe corrosion and suspension bush deterioration underscore the need for proactive servicing to prevent escalation into more severe mechanical failures. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 108,154 miles at the time of this assessment aligns reasonably with its age of approximately 17 years, averaging around 6,362 miles annually—a rate consistent with typical usage patterns for this model. However, the MOT history reveals periods of rapid mileage accumulation, particularly between 2022 and 2023, where the vehicle accumulated roughly 10,000 miles in a single year, which could accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and drivetrain elements. The presence of long idle periods, as suggested by the lower mileage in earlier years, may have contributed to standing corrosion in brake pipes and suspension elements, exacerbating the issues observed in previous MOTs. Given the recurring advisories on brake pipe corrosion and the critical failures of leaf springs, the buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the braking system, focusing on the integrity of the brake pipes, hoses, and calipers. Listen for unusual brake noise or vibrations during a test drive, as these could indicate worn pads, binding calipers, or warped discs. The offside rear brake disc showing pitted wear suggests uneven braking pressure or potential hydraulic issues, warranting a check of the brake fluid level and condition for contamination or bubbles. Additionally, the severe deterioration of the front lower suspension ball joint dust covers from 2023 indicates that the ball joints themselves may be compromised, leading to excessive play or clunking noises, especially during cornering or over bumps. Inspect the suspension for uneven ride height, excessive bounce, or clunking sounds when driving over rough roads. For the suspension, examine the rear leaf springs for signs of further deterioration, such as additional cracks or sagging, which could compromise structural integrity and lead to dangerous handling issues. The oil leak advisory from 2021 suggests a potential engine or transmission fluid leak, so check under the vehicle for fluid pooling and verify the oil level and condition during the test drive. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, the buyer should also inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can weaken the tyre structure and reduce safety. The 12V battery should be tested for voltage output and overall health, as older vehicles are prone to battery failure, especially if the vehicle has been left standing for extended periods. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in recent years, consider checking the service book for the last scheduled maintenance, particularly for fluid top-ups (brake, coolant, transmission, and engine oil) and filter replacements, as fluid degradation over time can accelerate wear on seals and bearings.