2015 Ford Transit 2.2L Diesel · SC65 XAF

The most recent MOT, carried out on 2 May 2025, was passed but recorded an advisory that the rear brake pads are wearing thin. Prior to that the vehicle passed its 2024 and 2023 tests without any recorded defects, while the 2021 test showed a dangerous failure for rear brake pads under the minimum thickness and an advisory on the nearside front suspension arm pin or bush. The pattern indicates that the serious brake‑pad deficiency identified in 2021 has been addressed sufficiently to clear the test, yet the wear on the rear pads is now approaching the limit again, and the front suspension bush remains a point of concern. Overall the maintenance trend is stabilising but still shows the need for imminent component replacement. At 104,542 miles the van averages roughly 9,500 miles per year over its eleven‑year life, which sits squarely within normal usage for a light commercial vehicle. There are no obvious mileage gaps that would suggest long periods of inactivity, so the wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension is likely to be consistent with the recorded mileage rather than being accelerated by periods of standing. The mileage level also means that major wear items – clutch, gearbox synchronisers, and engine bearings – will be entering the later stages of their service life and should be inspected for any signs of excessive noise or loss of performance. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the rear braking system. Measure the pad thickness – anything below 1.5 mm will be unsafe and will require immediate replacement, and the associated brake discs should be examined for scoring, glazing or rust that could cause shudder or reduced stopping power. During a test drive listen for any high‑pitched squeal or low‑frequency growl when applying the brakes, and feel for any pulsation through the pedal that could indicate disc warping. Because the front suspension arm bush was flagged in both 2021 and 2022, check for any play in the nearside front wheel when the vehicle is lifted, and listen for clunking noises over bumps or when steering. Uneven tyre wear on the front left side can be a symptom of a worn bush or misaligned geometry, so tyres should be inspected for tread depth, side‑wall cracking and any signs of perishing due to age. Beyond the specific advisories, the van’s age warrants a comprehensive visual and functional inspection. Verify that the tyre sidewalls are free of dry‑rot and that the tread depth exceeds the legal minimum, remembering that rubber can degrade after six to eight years even on low‑mileage tyres. Test the 12 V battery voltage and check for corrosion on the terminals, as a vehicle of this vintage often suffers from battery weakening if it has spent long periods idle. Examine all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – for correct levels and for any discoloration or particulate contamination that would indicate overdue changes. Finally, look for any oil or coolant leaks around the engine bay, inspect the exhaust for cracks or excessive rust, and confirm that the service book shows regular oil changes and timing‑chain or timing‑belt service (if applicable) at the manufacturer‑specified intervals. Addressing these items will give a clear picture of the van’s current roadworthiness and the likely cost of bringing it to a fully reliable condition.