2017 Ford Transit 2.0L Diesel · LS67 EBX

A high-mileage commercial vehicle with an isolated but specific brake failure, this Transit presents a generally stable MOT record but warrants close attention to the rear braking system. The history shows clean passes in 2023 and 2025, with an intervening failed test on 2025-11-12 attributed solely to a nearside rear brake disc contaminated by oil leaking into it. This was rectified and passed the following day with no defects recorded, indicating the issue was addressed promptly. The only advisory on file relates to rear brake pads wearing thin at the 2022 test, suggesting the rear braking components have historically been the primary wear point on this vehicle. With 151,854 miles accumulated over nine years, this Transit averages roughly 16,873 miles annually, which is considerably higher than typical passenger car usage and consistent with sustained commercial or fleet operation. This level of annual mileage means the drivetrain, clutch, suspension components, and braking system have experienced substantially more duty cycles than a lower-mileage equivalent. Notably, testing gaps are minimal with annual entries from 2022 onwards, indicating continuous road use rather than extended periods of standing. The mechanical implication is that consumables such as clutches, dual-mass flywheels, timing chain hardware, turbocharger components, and rear axle bearings should be considered as having elevated wear relative to age alone. Given the documented rear brake disc oil contamination failure, a prospective buyer must thoroughly inspect the rear braking system. On inspection, verify that the rear calipers, particularly the nearside unit, are functioning correctly without binding, and check for any signs of oil leakage from the rear hub seal or axle assembly migrating onto the disc surface. Contaminated discs often exhibit a dark glazed appearance or uneven braking performance, so a test drive should focus on whether the vehicle pulls to one side under firm braking or whether the rear brakes feel inconsistent. Additionally, inspect the disc surface for hot spots or lipping beyond normal wear, as contaminated discs sometimes require replacement rather than just cleaning. Given the 2022 advisory regarding thin rear pads, confirm that current pad material remains adequate and that the caliper slide pins operate freely without seizing, as seized pins frequently cause uneven pad wear on Transits of this age and mileage. Beyond the documented brake concerns, this mileage profile demands a broader inspection of commercial vehicle-specific wear items. Listen for clonks or knocking from the rear suspension over speed bumps, paying particular attention to the leaf spring bushes and shackles, which are common failure points on high-mileage Transits. On the test drive, check for clutch slip under load, excessive vibration through the steering wheel indicating worn suspension or driveshaft components, and any hesitation or smoke from the exhaust suggesting turbo wear. Examine the underside for corrosion on subframe mounting points, brake lines, and the exhaust system, as commercial vehicles operating at high mileage are particularly susceptible to underbody deterioration. Finally, verify the timing chain operation by listening for rattle on cold start, and confirm that the cooling system shows no signs of recent leak repair or overheating, given the sustained heavy use this vehicle has experienced throughout its service life.