2017 Ford Transit 2.0L Diesel · MJ67 DYA

The most recent MOT test on 20 April 2026 resulted in a pass, though it was accompanied by three advisories concerning the condition of the front brake disc, the rear brake disc, and the front tyres reaching the legal wear limit. Notably, this pass followed an immediate failure recorded on the same date for a cluster of lighting defects, specifically the offside front position lamp, offside front headlamp on dipped beam, and offside rear stop lamp. Earlier in March 2025, the vehicle also failed on more serious mechanical grounds, with a dangerous defect noted for the offside rear brake pads being worn to less than 1.5 millimetres, effectively metal to metal, alongside a major defect concerning a split nearside drive shaft constant velocity boot. The intervening passes in April 2024 and March 2025 were recorded without any advisories, indicating that the overall maintenance trend has become progressively worse in the latter period, with multiple safety-critical items requiring repair within a short twelve month window. With a recorded mileage of 62,849 miles over approximately nine years, this Ford Transit has accumulated an average of around 6,983 miles per annum. This figure is broadly consistent with typical usage for a commercial vehicle of this age and sector, suggesting neither excessive long distance wear nor extended periods of standing idle. Given the working nature of Transits, this mileage is likely to have been achieved through consistent urban and light commercial duties, which tends to impose particular strain on braking components, clutches, and suspension due to frequent stop-start operation and varying payload weights. The absence of any mileage gaps in the recorded history supports the view that the vehicle has been in regular service, reducing the risk of calendar-based deterioration but increasing wear on consumable items. A prospective buyer should place considerable emphasis on the braking system given the pattern observed in the MOT history. The advisories for pitted and scored brake discs on both axles suggest surface corrosion or wear that may have developed, and while not deemed dangerous at the time of test, these discs will likely require machining or replacement alongside the next set of pads. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for any brake shudder under firm application, feel for vibration through the steering wheel, and check that the vehicle pulls evenly to a halt without pulling to one side, which could indicate a binding caliper. Given that the offside rear pads were recently at metal to metal thickness, a thorough inspection of the rear caliper mechanisms, sliders, and handbrake operation is essential, as neglected calipers frequently cause uneven pad wear. The front tyres being worn close to the legal limit at the last test means replacement is imminent, and the buyer should inspect the sidewalls for any perishing or cracking consistent with age, as commercial tyres can degrade from UV exposure even when tread depth remains acceptable. The failure of the nearside drive shaft CV boot in March 2025 is a critical item requiring verification. If the repair record cannot confirm a proper replacement of the boot and repacking of the joint with fresh grease, there is a real risk of premature CV joint failure, typically heralded by a clicking noise on full lock turns or a shudder under acceleration. The simultaneous lighting failures on the offside front position lamp, dipped beam, and offside rear stop lamp on the April 2026 test are most likely attributable to failed bulbs or a corroded multi-plug connector, though a chafed wiring loom or earth fault cannot be ruled out on a vehicle of this age. Beyond the documented history, general age and mileage appropriate checks should include verification of recent cambelt or timing chain service intervals, the condition of suspension bushes and coil springs for cracks or sagging under load, exhaust integrity including the flexi joint and rear silencer, and the state of all fluid services including brake fluid, coolant, and transmission oil. Finally, confirming a complete service book stamp history will be vital to ensure that the higher wear commercial components have been attended to at appropriate intervals.