2015 Ford Transit Connect 1.6L Diesel · PR06 CYR

The most recent DVSA test on 9 January 2026 resulted in a pass, but the same date also carries a prior fail and a dangerous defect that warrant close attention. The dangerous failure was recorded against the nearside rear tyre for a tear caused by separation or partial failure of its structure, alongside three PRS items relating to a non-functional front windscreen washer, an offside front headlamp not working on dipped beam, and an inoperative nearside front position lamp. While a pass was ultimately issued the same day, the simultaneous presence of a dangerous tyre defect on a commercial-class vehicle suggests the tyre had to be replaced before the test outcome was finalised. Comparing this to the December 2023 pass with no defects, the intervening failure on 23 December 2024 for a wiper that did not clear the windscreen effectively, and the recurring brake pad advisories at the 2025 test, the overall maintenance trend appears to be stable but with clear signs of wear-related decline typical of a high-mileage commercial van. With 140,160 miles recorded over approximately 11 years, the vehicle is averaging around 12,742 miles per year, which is substantially above the national average for a light commercial vehicle and points to consistent, hard working use. This kind of annual mileage is consistent with fleet or trade usage and accelerates wear on all consumable and structural components. There are no unusual gaps in the MOT record that would suggest long periods of standing, and the steady accumulation of mileage is in fact a positive indicator that the vehicle has been regularly exercised, reducing the risk of seized brakes, perished tyres from disuse, and degraded fluids from inactivity. The advisory recorded on 9 January 2026 for slight play in the offside front suspension arm ball joint is a concern that should be investigated promptly. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over bumps, uneven or feathered tyre wear particularly on the offside front, vagueness in steering response, and any shimmy or vibration through the steering wheel. Given the higher annual mileage, the suspension bushes, anti-roll bar drop links, and front strut mounts should also be physically inspected for cracking, perishing, or movement, as these components degrade progressively with use and load carrying. The cluster of brake pad advisories across the front and rear axles at the 2025 test, combined with the note that the front brake hydraulic reservoir was close to the minimum mark, indicates that the braking system has been working hard and should be thoroughly inspected. During a test drive, the buyer should feel for any sponginess, excessive travel, or pulling to one side under braking, and listen for grinding or scraping that would suggest pads have worn beyond the advisory state. The vehicle also has a documented history of tyres being run close to the legal limit and on the edges, including a dangerous failure for tread depth below 1.6mm and a structural tyre failure, so a careful inspection of all four tyres for age-related sidewall cracking, bulges, uneven wear patterns, and correct matching of brand, size, and load rating is essential. Given the age and mileage, the buyer should additionally verify the timing belt or chain service history applicable to the engine variant fitted, confirm the age and condition of the 12 volt battery, check for any fluid leaks from the engine, transmission, and power steering, and ensure that brake fluid, coolant, and gearbox oil have been changed in line with calendar-based service intervals rather than purely by mileage.