2021 Ford Transit Custom 280 Trend Eblue 2.0L Diesel · OV71 DBX

The most recent DVSA MOT test for the 2021 Ford Transit Custom 280 Trend EBLUE was conducted on 2025-10-16 and resulted in a pass, though it included two advisories related to tyre wear on both the near-side and off-side front tyres, each showing excessive lateral wear patterns close to the legal limit under 5.2.3(e). This is a notable trend, as the vehicle previously passed an MOT in 2024-10-15 without any defects or advisories, indicating a potential shift in maintenance or driving behaviour over the intervening year. The presence of these advisories suggests either underinflation, improper alignment, or excessive steering angle variations, which can accelerate tyre wear. While the vehicle remains roadworthy, the recurring nature of these issues warrants closer attention to ensure they are not worsening with further use, as they could lead to premature tyre replacement costs or compromised handling. The recorded mileage of 40,484 miles for a vehicle aged five years represents an annual usage rate of approximately 8,097 miles, which is within the expected range for this model and class. This figure does not suggest either excessive wear from high mileage or prolonged idling, which could lead to standing corrosion or fluid degradation. However, the gap between the 2024 and 2025 MOT tests—approximately one year—could imply periods of reduced usage, potentially contributing to minor but critical issues such as brake system corrosion from standing, fluid degradation in the cooling or hydraulic systems, or subtle suspension component wear from lack of dynamic loading. The absence of higher mileage figures over the same period also means that wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension bushes, or drivetrain components may not yet be pronounced, but these should still be monitored as part of a comprehensive inspection. To proceed with a thorough assessment, the prospective buyer should conduct a detailed physical inspection of the vehicle’s mechanical and structural integrity. Begin with the front tyres, verifying the lateral wear patterns noted in the advisories—ensure the edges are not excessively worn and that there are no signs of uneven tread depth across the face. On a test drive, listen for unusual suspension noises, particularly from the front wheels, which could indicate worn suspension bushes, broken coil springs, or binding calipers. Check for any signs of fluid leaks under the vehicle, focusing on the engine bay, under the bonnet, and around the front and rear axles, as these could signal failing seals or fluid degradation. Additionally, visually inspect the brake discs and pads for signs of corrosion, binding, or uneven wear, and listen for grinding noises when braking, which may indicate worn brake linings or damaged discs. For age-and-mileage-appropriate checks, the buyer should also verify the condition of the vehicle’s 12V battery, ensuring it holds a charge and has no signs of corrosion or physical damage. Inspect the brake fluid reservoir for contamination or moisture, as this can lead to brake system failure over time, and consider checking the fluid level and colour—if it appears dark or has particles, a hydraulic fluid change may be necessary. The cooling system should be evaluated for signs of overheating history, such as burnt smells or discoloured coolant, and the radiator and hoses should be checked for cracks or bulges. Finally, since the vehicle has been in use for five years, a review of the service history is prudent, particularly for fluid servicing intervals (e.g., brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid), as these degrade over time and should be replaced according to Ford’s recommended service schedule. If no service records are available, the buyer should prioritise replacing fluids that have been in service for over two years, as this significantly reduces their effectiveness and safety.