2017 Ford Transit 2.0L Diesel · RO17 HCE

The 2017 Ford Transit passed its most recent DVSA MOT test on 12 December 2025 with no defects or advisories recorded, which is a positive indicator of its present roadworthy condition. However, reviewing the broader history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories that warrant close attention. The most notable trend concerns the front brake pipes, which were flagged as corroded and covered in grease or other material across three consecutive tests between November 2022 and November 2024. This repeated advisory suggests ongoing deterioration of the brake line corrosion protection, and despite the absence of a current advisory, the underlying condition of these pipes may have progressed. Additionally, a 2024 advisory noted that the offside rear brake pads were approaching the end of their service life, meaning they are likely due for replacement by now given the intervening mileage. A prior advisory relating to the offside front lower suspension arm pin or bush and the nearside front top bush or bearing showing slight wear is also relevant, as suspension wear of this kind typically progresses with continued use and load carrying typical of a Transit van. With 73,601 miles recorded over approximately nine years, this vehicle has covered roughly 8,178 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a commercial van of this age and segment. The MOT history shows consistent annual testing with no substantial gaps in mileage records, indicating regular use rather than long periods of standing. This is mechanically beneficial, as sustained operation tends to keep components such as brakes, seals, and the drivetrain working as intended, reducing the likelihood of issues such as seized calipers or internal corrosion that can develop in vehicles left idle. That said, the typical workload of a Transit often involves heavy loading, so attention should be paid to the condition of components that endure additional stress during payload operations. Given the recurring advisories on the front brake pipes, a prospective buyer should undertake a thorough physical inspection of the entire brake line system, paying particular attention to any signs of corrosion, pitting, or active seepage, especially around pipe unions and the master cylinder area. Brake pipes are a safety-critical component, and once corrosion penetrates the pipe wall, replacement becomes mandatory rather than advisory. The vehicle should be raised on a ramp or examined on a jack to allow full visual access to the underbody pipework, as MOT testers can only observe visible sections. On a test drive, listen for any squealing or grinding from the rear offside brake, as this would suggest the previously thin pads have worn further. Any pulling to one side under braking, a spongy pedal feel, or a drop in brake fluid level in the reservoir would warrant immediate investigation, as these symptoms may indicate a leaking brake pipe or compromised hydraulic system. Beyond the brake and suspension concerns raised in the MOT history, the advisories relating to the horn and washer system, both flagged as failures in 2020 and the horn in 2023, suggest these ancillary items should be verified as functional during a viewing. For a van of this age and mileage, it is also prudent to check the condition of the tyres not only for tread depth but for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing from age, as rubber degrades with time regardless of wear. Verify that the service book contains evidence of regular oil and filter changes at appropriate intervals, and consider the age-based replacement of the 12V battery, brake fluid, and coolant, as these fluids degrade with calendar age rather than mileage alone. Finally, inspect the rear and underfloor areas for any structural corrosion, particularly around jacking points, the rear crossmember, and the inner wheel arches, all of which are known corrosion-prone areas on Transits and can be expensive to remediate if left unaddressed.