2021 Ford Transit Custom 300LMTD Eblue A 2.0L Diesel · OY71 WCF

The most recent DVSA examination on 10 August 2026 produced a pass with no defects recorded, which is a positive immediate outcome for a prospective buyer. However, the same date also carries a prior failure entry in which the nearside front tyre was rejected for a cut deep enough to expose the ply or cords, accompanied by an advisory that the nearside rear tyre was worn close to the legal limit, distorted on the edge, and going out of shape. Looking at the broader trajectory, the 2024 test flagged wear on the front brake discs, rear brake discs, front brake pads, and a nearside front tyre close to the legal limit, along with a steering column top bearing showing slight wear. The 2025 test then recorded tyre-related advisories on both the nearside rear tread pattern and nearside front sidewall damage. The recurring theme across three consecutive tests is one of premature or uneven tyre wear and progressive brake and steering component degradation, suggesting a vehicle under heavy commercial use where consumables are being worked hard. The overall picture is therefore one of adequate compliance but a maintenance trend that has been gradually worsening rather than improving, particularly in respect of rolling stock and braking consumables. With 125,421 miles recorded over approximately five years, this Transit Custom is averaging around 25,000 miles per year, which is materially higher than typical private use and entirely expected for a commercial van. There are no significant gaps in the recorded mileage progression, indicating that the vehicle has been in regular service rather than left standing for extended periods. High annual mileage of this nature accelerates wear on the clutch, dual-mass flywheel if fitted, turbocharger, engine oil and filter service intervals, brake discs and pads, suspension components, and drivetrain mounts. Diesel particulate filter health and AdBlue system function are also areas that merit closer scrutiny given the workload, and any history of short urban journeys versus longer motorway running should be established, as prolonged low-speed operation can lead to DPF saturation and EGR valve contamination. There is no evidence in the MOT record of standing or neglect, but the mileage pattern means mechanical sympathy on a test drive is essential. Given the recurring nearside tyre issues across multiple tests, a prospective buyer should carry out a close physical inspection of all four tyres and any spare, paying particular attention to uneven shoulder wear, feathering, or stepped tread blocks which can point to misalignment, worn suspension bushes, or tracking irregularities. On a test drive, listen for any knocking or clonking from the front end over speed humps or uneven surfaces, which could indicate deteriorated anti-roll bar bushes, drop links, or top mounts, and check for vague or wandering steering behaviour consistent with worn steering or suspension linkages. The 2024 advisory relating to the steering column top bearing warrants checking for any notchiness, roughness, or slack when turning the wheel from lock to lock with the vehicle stationary, and any clunking from the column itself should be investigated. Brake pedal feel should be assessed for firmness and any shudder through the pedal or steering wheel under moderate to heavy braking, which would corroborate the previously recorded disc wear and pitting and may indicate that a disc skim or replacement is now due. Brake-related advisories in 2024 noted pitted and scored front and rear discs as well as thinning front pads, and given the high mileage and two further years of service since that test, it is reasonable to assume further progression. On inspection, the discs should be measured for remaining thickness against the manufacturer specification stamped on the disc bell or listed in the workshop manual, and the pads checked for remaining friction material and any uneven wear across the axle. Any binding calipers, evidenced by a wheel that is hotter than its counterpart after driving or reluctance to rotate freely when jacked up, should be noted as it would accelerate pad and disc wear disproportionately. Fluid condition is also worth verifying; brake fluid should be tested for moisture content and the date of last replacement confirmed, as moisture absorption reduces braking performance over time. Beyond the recorded defects, given the calendar age, the 12V battery health should be checked, the timing belt or chain service interval confirmed against manufacturer schedule, and the underside of the vehicle inspected for any fluid leaks, corrosion to brake lines, or signs of recent accident repair, all of which are routine due diligence considerations for a high-mileage commercial vehicle of this vintage.