2016 Ford Transit 2.2L Diesel · SW65 NPE

The most recent MOT test on the 2016 Ford Transit, conducted on 2026-02-25, resulted in a pass, though it revealed persistent but non-dangerous issues that have been consistently flagged across multiple inspections. The vehicle’s maintenance history shows a pattern of recurring advisories and minor failures, particularly concerning the front drive shaft CV boots, brake pipe corrosion, and brake disc wear. While the latest test did not classify any of these as dangerous, the fact that they have persisted through several MOTs suggests a lack of comprehensive or timely maintenance, particularly on high-wear items like the CV joints and braking system. The presence of major failures from earlier tests—such as the 2022 MOT’s ABS fault, severely worn rear brake pads, and the 2023 MOT’s oil sump porosity—indicates that the vehicle has not been adequately serviced to address critical wear and potential structural or fluid-related degradation. This trend of unresolved issues raises concerns about the extent of underlying mechanical stress, especially given the vehicle’s age and the high recorded mileage. The 2016 Transit’s mileage of 136,527 miles represents a usage rate of approximately 13,653 miles per year, which is unusually high for a vehicle of this age. Typically, a 10-year-old car with such mileage would have been retired from heavy service, suggesting either aggressive daily use, frequent long-distance travel, or a combination of both. High-mileage vehicles of this age are prone to accelerated wear on consumables like brake pads, CV boots, seals, and suspension components, which aligns with the recurring defects observed in the MOT history. The CV boots failing repeatedly indicate significant flexing and potential internal damage, which could lead to increased dust ingress and further accelerated wear on the differential and transmission. Additionally, the consistent corrosion on brake pipes and discs suggests prolonged exposure to moisture and road salt, which can compromise structural integrity over time, particularly if not addressed with regular cleaning and lubrication. For a prospective buyer, the 2016 Ford Transit requires a thorough inspection to assess the severity of the unresolved issues and plan for necessary repairs. Start with a visual and functional check of the front drive shafts, focusing on the CV boots—look for any signs of excessive flexing, oil leaks, or debris accumulation around the joints. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the front wheels, particularly clunks or grinding sounds during cornering or acceleration, which could indicate failing CV joints or binding calipers. The braking system demands special attention; inspect the brake discs for warping, scoring, or uneven wear, and check for any binding or shuddering when applying the brakes, which may suggest worn pads or warped discs. The brake pipes should be examined for leaks or cracks, and the ABS warning light should be tested to ensure it does not illuminate during braking. Given the history of oil leaks and sump porosity, verify that the engine bay is free of excessive oil pooling and that no unusual odours or smoke are present during startup or operation. Beyond the mechanical checks, address the broader roadworthiness concerns by ensuring the vehicle’s fluids are up to date. Given the age of the vehicle, brake fluid should be replaced every two years or if it appears dark or contaminated, as this can lead to reduced braking performance. The coolant system should also be inspected for leaks or corrosion, particularly around the brake lines, and the battery’s health should be evaluated, especially if the vehicle has been left stationary for extended periods. Tyres should be checked for sidewall perishing, which is common in older vehicles due to exposure to UV light and ozone, and ensure they meet the legal minimum tread depth. Finally, review the service history to confirm that the vehicle has been serviced according to Ford’s recommended intervals, particularly for the CV joints, suspension, and drivetrain components, as these are critical areas of wear in a high-mileage vehicle. If the buyer is unwilling or unable to address the outstanding issues, the vehicle’s value may be significantly diminished, and the risk of unexpected failures could be substantial.