2017 Ford Ranger 3.2L Diesel · PR04 RON

A clear pattern of brake and tyre wear dominates the recorded history of this 2017 Ford Ranger, with the most recent test on 5 February 2026 returning a clean pass but earlier records exposing a serious front brake and tyre failure. The 18 February 2025 test was failed on three dangerous defects, all linked to contact patch and braking performance: both front tyres recorded tread below the 1.6mm legal minimum, both rear tyres were flagged as advisories for being worn close to the legal limit, and the front brake pads were recorded at less than 1.5mm thick. This failure indicates that the friction components and tyres were left to deteriorate well beyond safe service limits. A retest just two days later on 20 February 2025 resulted in a pass with no defects recorded, meaning replacement items were fitted, and the subsequent February 2026 pass suggests those components have held up since. The 2024 test also noted both front tyres as worn on edge, reinforcing that the front axle has consistently carried the brunt of wear. With 79,074 miles accumulated over nine years, the average annual mileage of roughly 8,786 miles is broadly consistent with typical mixed-use for a working pickup of this age. There are no prolonged gaps in the MOT testing history between 2020 and 2026, with annual or near-annual tests recorded throughout, indicating continuous use rather than extended periods off the road. Mileage progression between tests appears steady and consistent with normal accumulation rather than any sudden spikes. For a vehicle of this type and weight, regular use is generally beneficial in keeping mechanical seals, brakes, and drivetrain components in working order, although the recorded brake and tyre wear suggests the front axle has been working hard, possibly under loaded or towing conditions typical of Ranger operation. Given the history, particular attention should be paid to the condition of the front braking system during any pre-purchase inspection. Although the 2025 retest and 2026 pass imply that the pads, discs, and tyres were renewed, the buyer should measure remaining front pad and disc thickness directly, look for scoring or lipping on the disc edges, and check that the calipers are not binding, as the rapid pad wear noted in 2025 can sometimes point to a seized slider or guide pin. On a test drive, the brake pedal should feel firm and progressive without excessive travel, and there should be no pulling to one side under firm braking, which would suggest uneven pad wear or a sticking caliper. The four-tyre advisories and edge wear across 2024 and 2025 indicate that suspension geometry and alignment warrant close scrutiny. The buyer should check for uneven or feathered tread across the front tyres, as this typically points to worn wishbone bushes, ball joints, or tracking misalignment rather than simple tyre ageing. On the road, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end over speed humps and uneven surfaces, feel for vibration through the steering wheel, and note any wandering or pulling to one side that requires constant correction. The rear tyres being flagged for edge wear on the same 2025 failure should also prompt a check of the rear leaf spring condition, shock absorbers, and any load-induced alignment issues, particularly given the towing duties Rangers are typically expected to perform.