2012 Ford Transit 2.2L Diesel · N13 RBD

The most recent MOT on 30 January 2026 was a pass, but it was accompanied by three advisories covering a corroded fuel pipe, play in the steering‑rack inner joints and a minor oil leak. Over the last four years the vehicle has alternated between passes and a series of failures, many of which were recorded as major or dangerous defects – notably brake‑pipe corrosion, split CV‑boot seals, excessively worn suspension arm pins and anti‑roll‑bar ball joints, and a fractured rear leaf‑spring leaf. Although the latest result shows the vehicle cleared the test, the recurring nature of the same fault groups indicates a maintenance trend that is more deteriorating than stabilising; the underlying corrosion and wear have not been fully remedied and are likely to re‑appear if not addressed comprehensively. At 163 869 mi the van has logged an average of roughly 11 700 mi per year since its 2012 build, which sits squarely within normal commercial‑vehicle usage. The mileage does not suggest any periods of extreme short‑term over‑use, but the combination of age and this cumulative distance means that wear items such as bushings, joints, brake components and corrosion‑prone fittings are approaching the end of their service lives. The pattern of mileage is consistent with a vehicle that has been driven regularly rather than sitting idle for long stretches, so age‑related degradation of rubber and metal parts is a realistic expectation. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front and rear brake‑pipe condition; look for rust, pitting or any signs of fluid seepage, and test the brake pedal for a firm, consistent feel without sponginess or a need for excessive travel, which could indicate pipe weakening or internal corrosion. The steering‑rack play reported in the advisories should be checked by moving the wheel from lock to lock and feeling for any looseness or clunk; excessive play can lead to vague steering response and accelerated wear of the rack seals. Inspect both CV boots for cracks, tears or dried‑out rubber, as split boots will allow dirt ingress and eventual joint failure, often manifested by a clicking noise when turning under load. The anti‑roll‑bar ball joints and front suspension arm pins have been flagged as excessively worn on several occasions – feel for any looseness or knocking when the vehicle is bounced over a speed bump, and watch for uneven tyre wear which can be a symptom of compromised suspension geometry. The fractured off‑side rear leaf‑spring leaf recorded in 2023 is a structural concern; verify that the rear suspension is sound and that no residual damage remains, as a compromised leaf can cause harsh ride quality and reduced load‑carrying capacity. Given the vehicle’s age, a thorough pre‑purchase inspection should also cover age‑related items that are not captured by the MOT record. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or hardening, and confirm that tread depth is even across the wheel set. Test the 12 V battery voltage and check for any signs of sulphation, especially if the van has spent long periods stationary. Look for corrosion on the chassis, especially around the fuel‑pipe routes and brake‑pipe brackets, and ensure that any oil leak noted in the advisories is not emanating from a critical seal such as the valve cover or oil filter housing. Verify that the service book contains stamps for regular oil, filter and coolant changes, as time‑based fluid degradation can affect engine reliability. If any of the major defects identified in the MOT history have not been rectified – particularly the brake‑pipe corrosion, CV‑boot splits, suspension bush wear and rear leaf‑spring fracture – factor the cost of replacement or refurbishment into your offer, and consider insisting on a full mechanical inspection by a qualified MOT centre before finalising the purchase.