2017 Ford Transit Connect 1.5L Diesel · OV67 NMA

The most recent MOT test on 15 October 2025 resulted in an overall pass, but the same date records a prior failed attempt on the same inspection where both front windscreen wipers failed to clear the windscreen effectively, a major category defect under section 3.4 (b) (ii). This indicates the vehicle was returned to the test centre for re-examination after the wiper issue was rectified, which is a relatively minor rectification. Beyond that, the test carries two advisories that warrant attention: a deteriorated rear registration plate unlikely to be misread and an engine oil leak classified as not excessive. Looking across the full DVSA history, the maintenance trend appears broadly stable, though not without concern. The 2024 test also featured a re-test after a dangerous defect was recorded for an exposed ply or cord on the nearside rear tyre, paired with an advisory for offside rear tyre wearing on the outer edge. The 2022 test similarly failed on dangerous tyre tread depth deficiencies at both front wheels. These recurring tyre-related failures and wear pattern advisories suggest that tyre maintenance and possibly suspension geometry have been borderline areas, while the 2023 advisory for nearside front tyre edge wear reinforces this pattern. With 154,193 recorded miles over approximately nine years, this Transit Connect has averaged around 17,133 miles annually, which is notably high for a light commercial vehicle of this age and signals that mechanical wear on consumables, suspension, braking, and drivetrain components will be proportionally advanced. There are no significant mileage gaps in the recorded history, indicating continuous and fairly intensive use rather than extended periods of standing. For a commercial van of this mileage, particular attention should be paid to clutch condition, dual-mass flywheel wear if fitted, turbocharger function where applicable, gearbox synchro wear, and rear differential or driveshaft condition. The continuous high-rate running typically accelerates wear on suspension bushes, coil springs, anti-roll bar links, and steering components, all of which merit close inspection prior to purchase. Given the advisory recorded on 15 October 2025 for an engine oil leak, the prospective buyer should undertake a thorough under-bonnet inspection for the source and severity of the leak. Common origins on the Transit Connect of this generation include the timing chain area, oil filter housing, sump gasket, rocker cover gasket, and front crankshaft oil seal. On a test drive, listen for any timing chain rattle on cold start, monitor the oil level over a few days, and check for fresh oil residue on the engine block and undertray. Given the age and high mileage, the engine oil and filter should be on a recent service, and it would be prudent to confirm when the timing chain, auxiliary belt, and coolant were last renewed. The brake fluid and coolant degrade on a calendar basis regardless of mileage and should be replaced every two to three years, so evidence of recent fluid servicing should be sought. A 12V battery health check is also recommended as commercial vehicles often suffer from frequent short-cycle use which shortens battery life. The repeated tyre-related advisories and the dangerous failures for exposed cords and insufficient tread depth indicate that suspension geometry, wheel alignment, and possibly steering or bush wear deserve particular scrutiny. On a road test, listen for clonks or knocks from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, and pay attention to any pulling to one side, vague centre feel, or tramline tracking which would suggest worn wishbone bushes, track rod ends, or anti-roll bar drop links. Uneven or rapid tyre wear, particularly outer edge wear as previously recorded on the rear offside, can point to camber issues, sagging rear leaf springs, or worn suspension bushes. The rear brake discs, particularly on a high-mileage commercial vehicle frequently used for laden work, should be inspected for corrosion, lipping, and binding calipers, especially given periods of standing between uses. Finally, although the rear registration plate deterioration is cosmetic, it is worth ensuring any replacement is correctly sized and positioned to avoid future test failure, and a general inspection for corrosion around load areas, sliding door mechanisms, and the underside structural members is advisable given the age and working history typical of this model.