2019 Ford Transit Custom 2.0L Diesel · RF19 MLV

The most recent MOT test on the 2019 Ford Transit Custom, conducted on 2025-03-24, resulted in a passing grade despite a minor windscreen damage advisory and a battery-related failure. This outcome follows a pattern of fluctuating results over the past three years, with two failures in 2024 and 2022, interspersed with clean passes in 2023 and 2022. The recurring advisories on brake pad wear—particularly offside front pads—suggest a consistent but manageable level of friction system degradation, while the battery insecurity in 2025 indicates a potential long-term issue that could escalate if not addressed promptly. The overall trend remains volatile, with the vehicle’s maintenance history not reflecting a clear improvement or stability, which could signal underlying wear or neglect in critical systems. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 68,339 miles at the time of evaluation aligns closely with its age, approximately seven years old, and represents an average annual usage of around 9,763 miles, which is typical for this model and class. This usage rate suggests moderate to heavy operational demands, particularly on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components, which are prone to accelerated wear under such conditions. However, the absence of significantly higher mileage spikes or long periods of inactivity indicates that the vehicle has not been subjected to extreme or prolonged idleness, which could otherwise exacerbate issues such as standing corrosion in the battery terminals or fluid degradation in hydraulic systems. The consistent mileage progression also supports the likelihood of regular servicing, though the recent MOT failures suggest some areas may require closer attention. For a prospective buyer, the most critical inspection priorities should focus on the brake system, given the repeated advisories on pad wear. The offside front brake pads are particularly concerning, as thin or failing pads can lead to reduced braking efficiency, uneven wear on discs, and potential binding if not replaced soon. During a test drive, listen for a grinding noise when applying brakes, which indicates metal-to-metal contact between pads and discs, and check for a spongy or pulsating feel, which may signal warped discs or hydraulic issues. Additionally, inspect the brake discs for signs of excessive glazing, corrosion, or uneven thickness, and ensure the calipers are not binding or seized. The windscreen damage noted in previous MOTs should be repaired promptly to maintain visibility and prevent further deterioration, as cracked or damaged glass can compromise structural integrity and driver safety. Beyond the immediate concerns, the battery insecurity recorded in 2025 is a red flag that demands immediate attention. A loose or insecure battery can lead to electrical gremlins, reduced starting reliability, and, in severe cases, a complete failure that could leave the vehicle stranded. Test the battery’s charge level and terminal connections during the inspection, and ensure the carrier is securely fastened. The nearside rear stop lamp failure in 2024 is a less critical but essential issue to rectify, as faulty lighting is a persistent MOT failure and poses a significant safety risk. For the windscreen wiper system, which failed in 2022, consider replacing the wiper blades and ensuring the mechanism is fully operational, as effective windscreen clearance is vital for visibility in all conditions. Lastly, given the vehicle’s age and usage profile, check the tyres for sidewall perishing or cracking, which can compromise their structural integrity and safety, and verify that the service book records any scheduled fluid servicing, such as brake fluid flushes or coolant changes, which should have been completed within the recommended calendar intervals.