2022 Ford Transit Custom 300LEADER Eblue 2.0L Diesel · MA22 CKK

The most recent DVSA examination on 31 March 2026 resulted in a pass, which is a positive immediate indicator, but the maintenance trend over the last three tests is borderline rather than stable. On 30 March 2026 the vehicle failed on a major defect concerning the nearside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint, which was deemed excessively worn under section 5.3.4 (a) (i) and would have rendered the vehicle unroadworthy until rectified. This was corrected sufficiently to secure a pass the following day. However, an advisory has now appeared on two consecutive examinations, in April 2025 and twice in March 2026, noting that the nearside front service brake is binding but not excessively under section 1.2.1 (f). The recurrence of this advisory across multiple tests, combined with a recent major suspension failure, suggests developing wear in the front brake and suspension assemblies that warrants close attention rather than complacency. The recorded mileage of 62,749 miles over approximately four years equates to an annual accumulation of around 15,687 miles, which is notably high for a commercial vehicle of this age and points to intensive operational use, likely involving frequent laden work or long-distance driving. This level of usage accelerates wear on consumable and structural components alike, including brake friction material and discs, clutch assemblies if manually operated, suspension bushes, coil springs, wheel bearings, and drivetrain mountings. There are no significant gaps in the recorded mileage profile to suggest prolonged periods of standing, which reduces the likelihood of calendar-related defects such as severe corrosion from inactivity, tyre sidewall perishing, or brake caliper seizure due to lack of use. Conversely, the high running mileage means that components subjected to friction and load cycles will reach their service thresholds sooner than on a lower-mileage equivalent. Given the recurring nearside front brake binding advisory, a prospective buyer should physically inspect the nearside front caliper for smooth retraction, checking whether the slide pins are free and adequately greased, and whether the piston returns cleanly without hydraulic restriction. On a test drive, listen for any grinding, squealing, or dragging sensation from the nearside front corner, particularly when the brakes are released, and feel for any pulling to the nearside under braking or any uneven pedal response. The nearside front disc should be examined for hot patches, excessive lipping, or uneven wear, as a binding caliper accelerates disc wear asymmetrically and may necessitate replacement of both disc and pads. Additionally, after driving, cautiously feel the nearside front wheel for excessive residual heat, which is a strong indicator of a sticking caliper. With the recent replacement of the anti-roll bar linkage, verify that the work was carried out to a satisfactory standard and inspect the surrounding bushes, drop links, and coil spring seats for any secondary wear that may have been masked by the failed component. Beyond the recorded advisories, the high annual mileage profile dictates that routine servicing items are likely approaching or exceeding their intervals, so all fluid records should be scrutinised, including engine oil and filter changes, brake fluid renewal which degrades on a calendar basis regardless of mileage, coolant condition, and the diesel particulate filter regeneration history if applicable. The 12V battery should be load-tested given the high electrical demand typical of commercial vehicles, and the timing belt or chain service interval should be confirmed against Ford’s schedule. Tyres should be examined closely for uneven wear patterns, particularly on the nearside front which may indicate the persistent brake binding issue, and for any age-related perishing even though standing degradation is less likely with this usage profile. The underbody, including subframes, brake lines, and suspension components, should be inspected for corrosion and structural integrity, as high-mileage commercial vehicles frequently operate in harsh environments that can compromise underseal protection. Finally, a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified independent technician familiar with Ford Transits would be strongly advisable to confirm the resolution of the recent suspension defect and to identify any further maintenance requirements commensurate with this vehicle’s demanding operational history.