2010 Ford Transit 2.2L Diesel · ST10 CPF

The most recent MOT, carried out on 29 March 2022, resulted in a failure with several major defects, the most serious being excessive wear on the off‑side front anti‑roll bar linkage ball joint, excessive play in the off‑side track‑rod end, and an emissions test that could not be completed due to smoke levels well beyond the permitted limit. Over the six‑year recorded MOT span the vehicle has moved from a clean pass in 2018 to a pattern of repeated failures in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022, indicating a clear deterioration rather than an improving maintenance record. At 115,065 mi the van averages roughly 7,200 mi per year, a usage rate that sits comfortably within normal expectations for a 2010 model. The mileage does not, on its own, suggest excessive wear, but the age of the chassis combined with the intermittent standing periods implied by the low annual average means that age‑related degradation of rubber components, corrosion‑prone areas and time‑sensitive fluids is likely to be advanced despite the moderate mileage. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the front suspension and steering assembly. The anti‑roll bar linkages and track‑rod ends have been flagged repeatedly for excessive wear; listen for clunking or knocking noises when traversing bumps or during hard cornering, and feel for any looseness or wandering in the steering. Inspect the condition of the ball joints, bushings and the off‑side rear leaf spring, which was recorded as fractured in 2020; any visible cracks, corrosion or excessive play in the leaf spring mounting points will require replacement. The brake system shows a history of dangerously thin rear pads, binding on the off‑side front service brake and corroded pipework on both axles; check for uneven pad wear, a spongy or pulsating pedal, and any signs of fluid leakage around the brake lines. The near‑side seat‑belt anchorage was noted as compromised, so verify the integrity of the anchorage points and the webbing for fraying or corrosion. The repeated emissions failures point to a likely internal engine issue such as oil burning, injector leakage or a malfunctioning exhaust after‑treatment system; a diagnostic scan for fault codes and a visual inspection for blue‑grey exhaust smoke under load would be prudent. Beyond the specific defects, an overall age‑related inspection is essential. Examine the bodywork for structural rust, especially around the near‑side sill where corrosion was previously advisory, and ensure that any rust has not progressed to affect load‑bearing members. Check the tyre sidewalls for cracking or dry rot, as tyres older than six years can deteriorate even with low mileage. Assess the 12 V battery’s charge capacity and electrolyte level, as prolonged standing can lead to sulphation. Verify that the coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been changed within the recommended intervals, looking for signs of water ingress or sludge. Finally, request a full service book and any receipts for recent suspension, brake or emission‑system work; a comprehensive mechanical overhaul will be required before the van can be considered reliably roadworthy.