2020 Ford Ranger 3.2L Diesel · SN59 DOC

The defining event in this Ranger's MOT history is the single but significant failure recorded in October 2023, where it was presented with a fractured offside front coil spring and dangerously worn offside front brake pads below the 1.5 mm threshold, alongside a nearside front brake pad noted as wearing thin. This is a particularly concerning combination because a fractured coil spring at relatively low mileage on a commercial-oriented pickup can point to either an isolated overloading incident or a component quality issue, while brake pads worn to a dangerous state imply the friction material was allowed to deteriorate without timely replacement prior to test. Only two days later the vehicle returned and passed with advisories on both front inner tyres showing edge wear, suggesting the tyre issue was identified but not rectified under test conditions. Since that 2023 retest, three consecutive annual tests in March 2024, March 2025, and March 2026 have all passed without any recorded defects or advisories, indicating a stable and clean recent roadworthiness trend, though it is worth noting the underlying reason for the spring failure has no follow-up record visible in the data. At 47,952 miles over approximately six years, this Ranger is accumulating around 7,992 miles per year, which sits within the expected usage band for a working pickup or private dual-purpose vehicle. There are no anomalous gaps in the testing history that would suggest prolonged lay-up periods, and the mileage progression between tests appears steady. For a vehicle of this type and age, this mileage level means that consumables such as brake discs and pads, tyres, and suspension bushes should still have meaningful remaining life, but the drivetrain, clutch, and four-wheel-drive transfer components will have accrued real-world wear. The single year of high advisory activity in 2023 followed by a complete absence of recorded concerns since then suggests the major mechanical items flagged at that time were addressed, though whether comprehensively or as a minimum pass repair cannot be determined from MOT records alone. For a prospective buyer conducting a physical inspection, the priority areas should be the front suspension, particularly the offside side where the coil spring fracture occurred, and the front braking system. Listen for any clonking, knocking, or metallic rattles from the front end when driving over speed bumps or uneven surfaces, which could indicate a deteriorating coil spring on the nearside or compromised top mounts, shock absorbers, or anti-roll bar bushes following the original failure. On the brake pedal, check for any pulling to one side under firm application, a spongy pedal feel, or vibration through the pedal that might suggest warped front discs, and listen for any binding or scraping from the front calipers which could indicate seized slider pins given the documented pad wear pattern. Inspect the front tyres closely for uneven shoulder or inner-edge wear, as the 2023 advisories specifically flagged both front inner tyres worn to the limit on their edges, a condition often associated with incorrect tracking, worn suspension components, or aggressive cornering loads typical of utility vehicle use. Underneath the vehicle, pay particular attention to the front suspension arms, bushes, and steering components for any perishing, splitting, or play, as Ranger pickups of this generation are known for premature bush wear, and the 2023 coil spring failure warrants a thorough check of the surrounding spring seats and strut assemblies for any signs of impact damage or corrosion. Examine the brake pipes, flexible hoses, and calipers for any seepage or corrosion, particularly around the offside front caliper area where pad material had worn to a dangerous level, as this can sometimes indicate a seized piston or sticky caliper mechanism. Finally, given the vehicle's role as a load carrier, inspect the rear leaf springs, shock absorbers, and tow bar electrics if fitted, as these areas are not covered in the MOT record but are subject to consistent commercial use. A four-wheel-drive system check, including transfer box noise on engagement and any propshaft vibrations at speed, would also be prudent given the mileage and likely mixed-use profile of this Ranger.