2013 Ford Transit 2.2L Diesel · SP63 VJM

The most recent MOT inspection on 20 October 2025 resulted in a pass, but the advisory list indicates a vehicle entering a phase of progressive component degradation. While the vehicle has successfully passed its recent tests, the maintenance trend is concerning as several advisories regarding the suspension and braking systems have appeared or persisted over the last two years. Specifically, the transition from a failed test in 2023 to a pass with multiple advisories in 2025 suggests that while critical safety failures like fractured leaf springs and leaking brake pipes have been rectified, the vehicle is now accumulating wear-related defects that will require imminent attention to prevent future failures. With 167,695 miles recorded over approximately thirteen years, this Ford Transit has averaged roughly 12,900 miles per year. This is a relatively high usage rate for a commercial vehicle of this age, placing significant mechanical stress on the drivetrain, suspension, and braking assemblies. Such mileage implies that the vehicle has likely been used for consistent commercial duties rather than short, infrequent trips. Prospective buyers should be aware that high-mileage vehicles are prone to accelerated wear on consumables and structural components, and the recorded history of oil leaks and suspension play is consistent with a workhorse that has seen heavy, regular service. A primary area of concern for a test drive is the suspension and steering geometry. The recent advisories regarding nearside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint play, alongside worn anti-roll bar pins and bushes at both the nearside and offside rear, suggest significant movement in the chassis. During a test drive, listen closely for clunking or knocking sounds when traversing uneven surfaces or turning the steering wheel, as these symptoms indicate worn bushes or joints. Furthermore, the advisory regarding pitted and scored front inner brake discs, combined with a history of thinning pads, means you must check for brake shudder or pulsation through the pedal when decelerating from higher speeds. This could indicate warped discs or uneven pad material, which may necessitate a full disc and pad replacement shortly. The long-term structural and fluid integrity of the vehicle requires careful physical inspection. The advisory for underbody corrosion is a serious matter for a 2013 vehicle; you should inspect the chassis rails, suspension mounting points, and fuel lines for significant rust or structural thinning. Additionally, the recurring advisory for an oil leak, which has been noted since at least 2023, warrants a thorough examination of the engine bay and the ground beneath the vehicle while it is running. Look for signs of weeping around the rocker cover, oil filter, or sump to determine if the leak is a minor seepage or a more significant issue that could lead to oil starvation or environmental contamination. Ensure the service history documentation supports the replacement of fluids and filters, as consistent oil management is critical for a high-mileage diesel engine.