2016 Ford Transit Connect 1.5L Diesel · SN16 VRJ

Front‑axle wear dominates the MOT record, with repeated advisories on near‑side front tyre tread and a dangerous failure for near‑side front inner brake pads in January 2026 that was only remedied enough to achieve a pass on the following day. The pattern of tyre edge wear on both front wheels, coupled with thin brake pads, signals that the front suspension and braking system have been subjected to higher stress than the rear, and the recent pass still carries an oil‑leak advisory and a reminder of the same tyre‑wear issue. At 120,254 miles over roughly ten years the vehicle averages about 12 k mi per annum, a mileage level that typically accelerates wear on consumables such as tyres, brake pads and suspension components. The MOT history shows no multi‑year gaps, indicating the vehicle has been regularly tested, but the consistent front‑tyre wear suggests either a driving style that favours front‑wheel load or a possible alignment issue that has not been fully addressed. A prospective buyer should inspect the front tyres for uneven wear, especially on the inner edge, and verify that the tread depth exceeds the legal 1.6 mm limit across the entire tyre surface. During a test drive, listen for any grinding or squealing from the front brakes, feel for pedal pulsation or a soft, spongy feel that could indicate worn pads or contaminated fluid, and watch for any oil seepage around the engine bay or under the vehicle that matches the advisory. The rear coil springs were flagged as corroded in 2024, so a visual check for rust on the rear suspension mounting points and a brief ride over a bump should reveal any binding or loss of compliance. Additional attention should be given to the exhaust heat shields noted as insecure in 2024; a rattling noise under acceleration or deceleration could confirm a loose shield. The windscreen damage and ineffective wiper recorded in the 2022 failure should be examined to ensure clear visibility in rain, and the rear brake pad wear advisory from 2024 warrants a rear‑brake feel test for any pull or reduced braking efficiency. Addressing these specific items will give a clearer picture of the vehicle’s current roadworthiness before purchase.