2014 Ford Transit Custom 290 Trend E-TEC 2.2L Heavy oil · SF14 XNC

A pattern of frequent testing and recurring failures defines this Ford Transit, with the most recent failure on 23 March 2026 indicating a recent struggle to meet minimum roadworthiness standards. The vehicle has undergone eight recorded tests since 2019, but the recent history shows a significant decline in compliance, moving from a pass in early 2025 to three failures within the last fourteen months. This trend suggests an increasing frequency of mechanical issues that prevent the vehicle from passing the inspection on the first attempt, despite no specific defect descriptions being provided in the official DVSA records for the most recent failures. The available data lacks sufficient mileage readings to calculate an accurate annual accumulation rate or to compare the distance travelled against the vehicle's age. Without these figures, it is impossible to determine if the van has been used for high-intensity commercial work or if it has been subject to significant periods of inactivity. However, the testing frequency itself is notable; the gap between the 2019 and 2022 tests suggests a period where the vehicle may not have been tested annually, while the cluster of tests in early 2026 indicates a period of repeated attempts to rectify issues and secure a valid certificate. Because the MOT records for the recent failures in 2024 and 2026 do not specify the exact components that caused the failures, a physical inspection is required to identify the underlying faults. The lack of recorded advisory information means there is no documented history of progressive wear on items such as suspension bushes, brake pipes, or tyre tread depth. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the vehicle's handling and structural integrity, specifically looking for any unusual knocks or clunks from the suspension when driving over uneven surfaces, which could indicate worn linkages or dampers. During a test drive, it is essential to monitor the braking performance for any signs of pedal judder or pulling to one side, which might suggest binding calipers or warped discs. Given the recent failure history, the engine's performance and exhaust emissions should also be closely observed to ensure there are no signs of excessive smoke or irregular idling. Any sudden changes in steering weight or vibrations through the steering wheel should be treated as potential indicators of issues with the steering rack or front-end components that may have contributed to the recent unsuccessful inspections.