2021 Ford Tourneo Custom 320 Tnium Eblue 2.0L Diesel · SH71 FLE

The 2021 Ford Tourneo Custom 320 T-Nium EBlue received its latest MOT test on 2026-07-31, which passed with a series of advisories rather than failures, indicating a stable but cautious roadworthiness status. While the vehicle’s recent MOT history shows a pattern of recurring sidewall tyre defects and minor exterior issues, the absence of major failures or critical advisories in the last test suggests that the vehicle is not currently presenting an imminent safety risk. However, the presence of multiple tyre-related advisories—particularly the exposure of tyre cords on the nearside rear tyre in the failed test—demonstrates a concerning trend that warrants immediate attention. The vehicle’s maintenance trend appears to be neither improving nor worsening significantly, but rather maintaining a level of wear that requires vigilance to prevent escalation into more serious issues. The recorded mileage of 27,587 miles for a vehicle aged five years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 5,517 miles per year, which is notably lower than the average for its class. Such low mileage can often reflect periods of prolonged stationary use, which may contribute to specific wear patterns, such as accelerated corrosion from moisture exposure or fluid degradation due to inactivity. However, the absence of higher mileage accumulation suggests that the vehicle has not been subjected to the same levels of dynamic wear that might otherwise accelerate component fatigue in suspension, drivetrain, or braking systems. Nonetheless, the low mileage does not absolve the vehicle from potential issues arising from standing, such as brake disc corrosion, binding calipers, or fluid leaks that could develop silently over time. For a prospective buyer, the most critical inspection should focus on the tyre condition, particularly the nearside rear tyre, which failed the MOT due to exposed cords. Visually inspect the tyre tread depth and sidewall integrity for any signs of further deterioration, including cracks or separations that could compromise tyre integrity. During a test drive, listen for unusual tyre noise or vibrations, which may indicate uneven wear or internal damage. The front tyres also show signs of sidewall cracking, so a thorough check for any additional cuts or bulges is essential. Additionally, verify the brake system for signs of corrosion on the discs or binding calipers, which can occur when the vehicle stands for extended periods without use. Check the brake fluid level and condition, as standing vehicles are prone to fluid degradation, and inspect the brake pads for consistent wear and any signs of glazing or excessive heat buildup. Beyond tyres and brakes, examine the suspension for any signs of fluid leaks from the near-side rear shock absorber, which failed the MOT in 2025. Look for oil stains under the vehicle or around the shock mount, and test the suspension’s operation by performing a few bounces on each corner to assess damping performance. The vehicle’s low mileage suggests that fluid servicing may not have been performed as frequently as recommended, so check the levels and condition of all essential fluids, including coolant, transmission fluid, and differential fluid, for signs of contamination or degradation. Finally, inspect the battery for signs of corrosion or poor connections, as a dormant battery can suffer from reduced capacity or failure over time. Given the vehicle’s age and usage profile, a comprehensive service history check would be advisable to confirm that all scheduled maintenance—such as timing belt replacement, spark plug inspection, and exhaust emissions servicing—has been attended to.