2018 Ford Transit 2.0L Diesel · P25 FCT

The 2018 Ford Transit’s most recent MOT test on 2026-08-27 resulted in a passing grade, yet the vehicle’s history reveals persistent but non-severe advisories that have not resolved between tests, indicating a maintenance pattern that requires closer attention rather than one of outright deterioration. While the vehicle passed this latest inspection, the identical set of advisories—oil leaks, thin brake pads, and tyre cuts—appeared in both the failed and passed tests of the same date, suggesting either a recurring issue or a lack of corrective action. The prior failed MOT on 2025-07-17 also highlighted a non-functional dipped beam headlamp, which is a critical safety defect that must be addressed immediately, as it poses a direct risk to visibility during low-light conditions. The absence of any major failures in the 2024 MOT suggests a brief period of stability, but the overall trend leans toward unresolved technical concerns that demand proactive intervention to prevent escalation. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 124,525 miles at 8 years old represents an exceptionally high annual usage rate of approximately 15,566 miles per year, which is far above the average for its age. Such mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components, as well as potential long-term issues with fluid degradation and drivetrain lubrication. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests either heavy operational demands or prolonged periods of inactivity without proper maintenance, which can exacerbate issues such as standing corrosion in critical areas like brake systems or exhaust components. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, the wear rate on brake pads alone—particularly the inner pads showing thinness in both front and rear—is concerning, as it may indicate either prolonged braking stress or a need for timely replacement before friction material completely fails. To proceed with a purchase, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough mechanical inspection focusing on the recurring advisories and high-mileage implications. First, verify the oil leak source by checking under the vehicle for signs of oil pooling, particularly around the valve cover, oil pan, or transmission area, and listen for any unusual engine noises that may suggest internal leakage. The thin brake pads necessitate immediate attention; during a test drive, monitor brake pedal feel for softness or sponginess, which could indicate worn linings or hydraulic issues, and listen for grinding or squeaking when applying brakes, which may signal metal-to-metal contact. Inspect the tyres for uneven wear patterns, which could reveal misalignment or suspension defects, and ensure the near-side rear tyre cut is not worsening with further driving. Additionally, the near-side rear registration plate lamp inoperativity and the dipped beam headlamp failure are safety-critical defects that must be rectified before the vehicle is registered or used. The buyer should also check for tyre sidewall perishing, which is common in older vehicles, particularly if the tyres have not been rotated or balanced recently. Given the vehicle’s age and usage, the 12V battery should be tested for charge capacity and overall health, as prolonged inactivity or high mileage can accelerate battery failure. Finally, consider a visual inspection of the exhaust system for signs of corrosion or structural weakness, especially around joints and welds, and verify that all fluids—including brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—are at appropriate levels and not showing signs of degradation or contamination. If the vehicle has a service history, confirm that routine intervals for oil changes, suspension inspections, and brake servicing have been adhered to, as these records will provide further insight into its maintenance status.