2011 Ford Transit 2.2L Diesel · RE11 RYN

The 2011 Ford Transit currently holds a valid MOT certificate following a pass on 6 March 2026 at 177,415 miles, yet the maintenance trend is demonstrably worsening. The most recent test required a retest after failing the previous day on multiple points, including exposed tyre cords and incompatible LED headlamp bulbs. While the tester passed the vehicle, they flagged recurring advisories regarding worn front anti-roll bar D-bushes and, more critically, corrosion on the rear chassis members above the bump stops. The presence of structural rust, even if deemed not to significantly reduce rigidity at this exact moment, signals a deteriorating condition that demands immediate attention. The recorded mileage of 177,415 miles equates to a typical annual average of roughly 11,800 miles for a vehicle of this age. The MOT history shows consistent, if not entirely gap-free, annual testing. Between the February 2024 test at 163,963 miles and the February 2025 test at 168,535 miles, the van covered 4,572 miles. The subsequent twelve months until the March 2026 test saw a higher accumulation of 8,880 miles, indicating increased recent usage. This uptick in mileage correlates directly with the accelerated wear noted in the latest inspection, particularly the front tyres wearing to the cords. A prospective buyer must thoroughly inspect the structural integrity of the rear chassis, specifically the areas above the bump stops where corrosion was flagged in both 2025 and 2026. Surface rust can hide deeper perforation, and the tester's caveat that rigidity is not significantly reduced does not guarantee the condition will remain stable. Suspension components require close scrutiny as well. The front anti-roll bar D-bushes are wearing, and the 2025 failure highlighted degraded ball joint dust covers and a split constant velocity boot on the nearside, allowing dirt ingress that accelerates joint wear. Brake system health also warrants a physical check. The tester noted rusty front and rear brake pipes during the 2025 inspection, a common issue on aging Transits that can lead to pipe failure and fluid loss. Finally, the recurring issue of front tyre wear, culminating in exposed cords in March 2026, suggests potential alignment issues or simply neglected basic upkeep by the previous owner. Checking the inner edges of the front tyres and ensuring the recently fitted tyres are correctly rated for a commercial vehicle is essential before purchase.