2021 Ford Transit Connect 1.5L Diesel · ST06 RAG

The most recent MOT test for the 2021 Ford Transit Connect was conducted on 2025-10-29, resulting in a passing outcome with no recorded defects. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a notable inconsistency, as it failed the same test on the same date in 2025, specifically due to a major failure under section 5.2.1(a)(i) for the missing offside rear road wheel fixing. This indicates a recurring issue that should be addressed promptly, as the wheel fixing is critical for roadworthiness and safety. While the intervening MOT in 2024 was clean, the pattern suggests either a persistent manufacturing or installation defect or a failure to rectify the previous issue, which raises concerns about the vehicle’s structural integrity and adherence to regulatory standards. Prospective buyers should prioritise this defect, as the absence of the wheel fixing compromises the vehicle’s ability to safely support its load and maintain proper wheel alignment, potentially leading to uneven tyre wear, steering instability, or even catastrophic failure under heavy loads. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 76,779 miles at the time of this assessment represents a high annual usage rate of approximately 15,356 miles per year, which is significantly above the average for a five-year-old car. Such mileage accumulation is particularly concerning for a vehicle of this age, as it accelerates wear on critical components such as the suspension system, brakes, drivetrain, and exhaust components. High-mileage vehicles often exhibit signs of premature wear in suspension bushes, coil springs, and control arm bushings, which can lead to clunking noises during cornering or road imperfections, as well as uneven tyre wear patterns. The brakes may also show signs of excessive heat soaking, brake disc warping, or caliper binding, particularly if the vehicle has been driven heavily or frequently. Additionally, the rapid mileage suggests that the vehicle may have been subjected to more aggressive driving conditions or prolonged periods of heavy use, which could accelerate the degradation of internal components like the engine seals, transmission fluid contamination, or even the structural integrity of the chassis. Given the recurring MOT failure related to the missing offside rear wheel fixing, the buyer must address this defect immediately before proceeding with purchase. The wheel fixing is a structural component that must be securely attached to prevent detachment under dynamic loads, and its absence is a major safety hazard. On a test drive, listen for any unusual noises from the rear wheel area, such as a rattling or loose-sounding vibration when cornering or accelerating, which could indicate the wheel is not properly secured. Inspect the wheel nuts for tightness and the wheel itself for signs of imbalance or excessive wear. If the issue persists, the buyer should insist on a replacement of the wheel fixing, ideally with a new part and a thorough recheck of the wheel’s alignment and balancing. The buyer should also verify that the vehicle has been serviced in line with Ford’s recommended maintenance schedule, particularly for suspension components, as high mileage often exposes underlying wear issues that may not have been apparent in earlier MOTs. Beyond the immediate safety concern, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle to assess the broader impact of its usage profile. Given the high mileage, focus on the suspension system by checking for excessive play in the control arms, sway bar links, or coil springs, which may indicate bushings or linkages that have failed prematurely. Inspect the tyres for signs of uneven wear, which could point to misalignment or suspension issues, and measure their depth to ensure they meet legal minimum standards. The brakes should be examined for signs of excessive heat discolouration on the discs, warping, or binding calipers, which could be exacerbated by high-speed driving or frequent stops. Additionally, the vehicle’s fluids—particularly the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—should be checked for contamination or degradation, as high mileage can accelerate fluid breakdown. Finally, the buyer should verify that the vehicle’s service history includes all recommended intervals, such as the timing belt replacement (if applicable), as well as any recalls or updates issued by Ford for this model year. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, inspect for standing corrosion on the undercarriage, particularly around the wheel arches, exhaust system, and underbody components, as prolonged exposure to moisture can accelerate rust progression.