2015 Ford Transit 2.2L Diesel · ST65 LSC

The most recent MOT test on the 2015 Ford Transit recorded a passing result on 2025-09-30, following a series of failures and advisories in the preceding months. While this latest test is clean, the vehicle’s history reveals a pattern of recurring issues, particularly in the electrical systems, power steering, and brake components, which have persisted across multiple MOT cycles. The failures in 2023 and 2024—such as headlamp functionality, brake pipe corrosion, and power steering leaks—suggest a lack of consistent maintenance, with some problems escalating into major defects. The vehicle’s advisories, including corroded brake pipes, deteriorated CV joint boot, and sub-frame corrosion, indicate ongoing wear that could worsen without intervention, particularly if the vehicle is driven under varying conditions or exposed to harsh environments. The fact that the latest MOT passed does not negate the need for proactive checks, as some issues may have been mitigated but are not yet critical. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 78,150 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,105 miles per year, which is consistent with typical usage for a 11-year-old Transit. This mileage is neither exceptionally high nor low for its age, but the gaps between MOT tests—such as the 12-month intervals—could imply periods of prolonged inactivity, which may have contributed to standing corrosion, particularly in the brake systems and power steering components. Rapid mileage accumulation could accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and fluid systems, but the current mileage does not yet suggest severe, widespread damage. However, the combination of moderate mileage with recurring MOT advisories highlights the importance of addressing corrosion and electrical failures promptly to prevent further deterioration. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the brake system, electrical components, and structural integrity of the sub-frame and suspension. The advisories regarding corroded brake pipes and worn brake discs indicate that the braking performance may be compromised, with potential risks of reduced stopping efficiency or even brake pipe failure if left unchecked. Listen for uneven brake pedal response, excessive vibration during braking, or a spongy feel, which could signal warped discs, binding calipers, or internal brake fluid contamination. The severely deteriorated CV joint boot on the nearside front wheel suggests that the constant velocity joint may be leaking lubricant, leading to bearing wear or premature failure—inspect for play in the wheel rotation or a clunking noise during cornering. Test drive the vehicle at various speeds to confirm that the CV joint does not bind or exhibit excessive play. In addition to the mechanical concerns, the vehicle’s electrical system shows persistent issues with headlamps, stop lamps, and registration plate lamps, which could affect road safety and compliance. The peeling backbox skin and corroded sub-frame advisories point to structural wear that, while not yet critical, may require professional assessment if the vehicle is to be driven extensively. For practical checks, examine the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which is more likely with age than mileage, and verify that the tread depth is within legal limits. Check the 12-volt battery for signs of weakness, such as slow cranking or dimmed lights, as standing vehicles can suffer from battery discharge. Fluid levels, particularly brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant, should be topped up if low, and time-based servicing of fluids like the engine oil and transmission fluid should be considered, as these may have degraded over the vehicle’s age. Finally, review any service records to confirm that scheduled maintenance—such as suspension bush replacements, brake pad replacements, and exhaust system checks—has been conducted, as the MOT history does not reflect this.