2016 Ford Transit 2.0L Diesel · VE66 BCV

The 2016 Ford Transit received its latest MOT test on 25th October 2025, which passed with two advisories related to front tyre wear—both nearside and offside front tyres showing significant edge wear close to the legal limit. This follows a consistent pattern of passing previous MOTs from 2020 onwards, with advisories primarily concerning tyre wear, brake component degradation, and minor cosmetic issues. The absence of any failures or major defects in the last six years suggests a generally stable maintenance history, though the recurring tyre and brake advisories indicate ongoing wear that requires attention to prevent further deterioration. The offside running light non-functionality from 2019 remains an unresolved advisory, which could pose a safety risk if not addressed promptly. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 76,496 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,650 miles per year, which is typical for a 10-year-old Transit given its size and operational demands. Lower mileage might suggest periods of reduced use or storage, potentially leading to issues such as tyre perishing from prolonged exposure to sunlight or standing corrosion on components like brake discs or suspension mounts. Conversely, higher mileage could accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension elements, which aligns with the advisories observed in the MOT history. The steady accumulation of miles over the years also implies consistent operational stress, particularly on the braking system and tyres, warranting closer inspection during a test drive. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the front tyres, brakes, and suspension due to the recurring advisories. The edge wear on the front tyres—particularly the near and offside edges—indicates either aggressive cornering, uneven load distribution, or improper alignment. During a test drive, listen for uneven tyre noise, check for lateral movement or vibration, and verify that the vehicle handles smoothly through corners. The thin brake pads and pitted discs from previous MOTs suggest significant brake system usage, and further wear could lead to reduced stopping performance or even failure. Listen for grinding noises when applying brakes, check for brake pedal softness or sponginess, and inspect for uneven brake disc wear or binding calipers, which may require resurfacing or replacement. Additionally, the presence of tyre sidewall cracking or perishing from 2022’s MOT indicates that the vehicle may have been stored in conditions that accelerated tyre degradation, such as prolonged exposure to UV light or extreme temperatures. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for cracks, delamination, or dry rot, as these can compromise tyre integrity and safety. Given the vehicle’s age and the offside running light non-functionality, also verify the 12V battery health by ensuring all lights operate correctly, including the running light, and check for corrosion on battery terminals or cables. Lastly, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in recent years, consider a thorough inspection of fluid levels—particularly brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—due to their susceptibility to degradation over time. Check for leaks under the vehicle, particularly around the front suspension and exhaust system, and ensure all fluids meet the manufacturer’s specifications. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, also verify that the fuel system is clear of moisture or sediment, which could lead to starting issues.