2019 Ford Transit Custom 2.0L Diesel · MP04 ADP

The latest MOT test on 2026-05-14 returned a passing result, though it included two advisories that warrant careful consideration. The overall maintenance trend over the past three years appears stable, with no repeated failures or major defects beyond the windscreen-related issues from 2022 and the minor front windscreen damage noted in 2024. The absence of brake, suspension, exhaust, or structural failures in the last two MOTs suggests that while the vehicle has encountered some routine wear-related advisories—such as the rear brake disc condition—these do not currently pose an immediate roadworthiness risk. The presence of the oil leak advisory, however, indicates a potential underlying mechanical issue that should be addressed before further driving, as oil leaks can accelerate wear on the engine’s seals, gaskets, and bearings if left unchecked. The recorded mileage of 41,645 miles for a 2019 Transit Custom—roughly 5,949 miles per year—is unusually low for its age, particularly given the vehicle’s size and typical operational demands. Such low mileage often reflects periods of prolonged inactivity, which can exacerbate issues like standing corrosion on brake components, suspension linkages, and the exhaust system. While low mileage may suggest less wear on consumables like tyres or fluids, it also means that time-based degradation—such as brake fluid gelation, coolant system corrosion, or fuel system deposits—could be more pronounced than one might expect from mileage alone. The absence of recent mileage spikes does not necessarily indicate poor maintenance, but it does warrant heightened attention to components prone to calendar-based deterioration, especially those that may have been exposed to moisture or static electricity during extended periods of disuse. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination are the brake system, suspension, and fluid condition. Given the rear brake disc advisory from the 2026 MOT, verify that the discs are free of excessive pitting or warping, which could indicate uneven brake pad wear or hydraulic issues. Listen for any grinding noises when applying the brakes, as this may signal metal-to-metal contact between the disc and caliper. Check the brake fluid level and condition—if the fluid appears dark or gelled, it should be replaced regardless of mileage, as this can compromise braking performance. Additionally, inspect the oil leak source, which could stem from the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, or the oil pan gasket. A thorough test drive should reveal any oil pooling under the vehicle or a noticeable loss of power during acceleration, which would confirm the leak’s severity. Beyond the advisories, the vehicle’s low mileage profile makes it prudent to focus on age-related checks that may not be immediately apparent from mileage alone. Inspect the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with minimal usage over time, particularly in colder climates or if the vehicle has been stored without proper care. Check the brake discs for signs of corrosion or binding, especially near the caliper pistons, as standing corrosion can cause the discs to seize or bind, leading to reduced braking efficiency. Verify that the exhaust system is free of rust or corrosion, particularly around the catalytic converter and tailpipe, as prolonged inactivity can accelerate rust formation. Finally, test the 12V battery and associated electrical systems, as prolonged disuse can lead to sulphation or weak connections, which may not be evident from mileage alone. Ensure the service book is up to date, particularly for fluid servicing intervals, as the vehicle’s age and usage history suggest that time-based maintenance may have been less frequent than ideal.