2015 Ford Transit 2.2L Diesel · RO05 RTJ

The 2015 Ford Transit’s most recent MOT test on 27th July 2026 was passed without any recorded defects, marking a stable maintenance trend over the past two years. While the vehicle has not encountered any failures, the presence of persistent advisories from previous MOTs—particularly concerning corrosion on the rear brake pipes and discs—suggests a pattern of wear and potential underlying issues that warrant closer attention. The advisories from 2020 and 2023 highlight recurring problems with brake pipe corrosion and disc wear, which, if left unaddressed, could escalate into more serious failures, especially under high-mileage conditions. The absence of defects in the last two tests indicates that the vehicle remains roadworthy but requires proactive maintenance to mitigate long-term risks associated with the noted advisories. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 141,003 miles at the time of assessment represents a high annual usage rate of approximately 12,818 miles per year, which is notably elevated for a 11-year-old Transit. Such mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on critical components such as brakes, suspension, drivetrain, and fluid systems, as well as increasing the likelihood of corrosion and mechanical fatigue. The absence of significant mileage gaps in the past few years suggests consistent operational use rather than prolonged periods of inactivity, which could have otherwise mitigated some of the wear observed in the MOT history. Buyers should be aware that this level of usage may have contributed to the observed corrosion and disc wear, particularly in the brake system, and that further investigation into the vehicle’s maintenance schedule is advisable to confirm whether these issues have been systematically addressed. Given the recurring advisories on brake pipe corrosion and disc wear, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the rear brake system, focusing on the pipes, hoses, and discs for signs of further deterioration. During a test drive, listen for any unusual noises such as grinding or squeaking from the brakes, which could indicate worn brake pads or damaged discs. Additionally, check for uneven brake pad thickness or excessive heat discolouration on the discs, which may signal impending failure. The grease observed on the corroded pipes could also suggest fluid leakage or contamination, so inspect for brake fluid leaks under the vehicle and ensure the brake fluid level is within specification. If the corrosion or wear appears severe, consider replacing the corroded brake pipes and discs to prevent brake failure or reduced stopping performance. For the broader vehicle inspection, the buyer should also examine the suspension components for signs of wear or damage, particularly the rear suspension bushes and coil springs, which may exhibit clunking or rattling noises when driving over bumps. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks or excessive rust, as the advisories from previous MOTs suggest a history of corrosion that could propagate. Pay particular attention to the tyre condition, checking for sidewall cracking or perishing, which is more likely to occur with age than mileage alone. Given the vehicle’s age and usage profile, a visual inspection of the engine bay and undercarriage for signs of oil leaks, coolant leaks, or corrosion is essential, as well as verifying that the service book records include scheduled fluid changes, particularly for the engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant. Finally, test the 12V battery’s charge capacity and ensure all electrical connections are clean and secure, as prolonged inactivity or high mileage can affect battery health. If the vehicle has been driven infrequently, consider checking for standing corrosion on the chassis or undercarriage, as this can develop rapidly in damp conditions.