2015 Ford Transit Connect 1.5L Diesel · MD65 KYF

A serious safety issue emerges from the latest MOT: the off‑side front tyre was recorded with exposed ply or cords and the near‑side front tyre failed to meet the 1.6 mm minimum tread depth, both classed as dangerous failures. Although the same date shows a pass for the remainder of the inspection, the tyre defects alone render the vehicle unsuitable for road use until new tyres are fitted and the faults cleared. At 135,076 mi the van averages roughly 12,300 mi per year, well above the typical usage pattern for a 2015 light commercial vehicle. This elevated mileage suggests accelerated wear on high‑frequency components such as brakes, suspension bushings, steering joints and drivetrain bearings, and it also means consumables will be approaching the end of their service life. No significant gaps appear in the MOT chronology, indicating the vehicle has been regularly tested, but the cumulative distance underscores the need for thorough wear‑related checks. The advisory from 2024 noting missing rear brake‑pipe clips and a broken brake‑flex mount bolt points to a potential weakness in the brake‑line support system. On a test drive, feel for any softening or sponginess in the pedal, listen for hissing sounds that could indicate a leak, and inspect the rear pipe area for fluid stains or corrosion. The 2023 rear bump‑stop advisory suggests the rear suspension may have lost its intended travel limit; watch for clunking or knocking when traversing bumps, and verify that the rear coil springs and shock absorbers remain firmly seated without excessive play. Addressing the tyre failures is the immediate priority; replace both front tyres with a matched set and re‑check tyre pressures. Follow this with a detailed inspection of the rear brake‑pipe mounting hardware and the rear suspension bump‑stop assembly, repairing or replacing any missing clips, broken bolts or worn components. Only after these corrective actions are confirmed should the vehicle be considered for purchase, with a negotiated price that reflects the required remedial work.