2018 Ford Transit Custom 2.0L Diesel · WD18 LRO

The most recent MOT test on the 2018 Ford Transit Custom was conducted on 2025-10-20 and resulted in a pass, though it included a persistent advisory regarding front brake disc wear that is not yet excessive. The vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories and minor failures, particularly concerning front brake components, tyre wear, and lighting systems. While there were periods of passing MOTs, notably in 2023-10-12 and 2024-09-30, the presence of multiple advisories—such as thin brake pads and near-legal tyre wear—suggests ongoing wear and potential underlying issues that require closer attention. The failure in 2023-10-11, which included dangerous defects like brake pads below 1.5mm and tread depths below 1.6mm, indicates that the vehicle has not been fully maintained to prevent critical failures, particularly in braking and tyre safety systems. The recorded mileage of 69,494 miles for a vehicle aged eight years represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 8,687 miles per year, which is within the expected range for this model and class. However, the consistency of mileage accumulation—without significant gaps—suggests sustained operational use, which accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components. The absence of very high mileage figures could imply that the vehicle has been driven primarily for work or commercial purposes rather than leisure, but the MOT history does not support this assumption, as the wear patterns suggest regular, heavy usage. For a vehicle of this age, the wear on brake pads and tyres is particularly concerning, as these components degrade more rapidly under frequent braking and high load conditions. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the front braking system, as the MOT history highlights persistent thin brake pads and worn discs, which may indicate underlying issues such as misalignment, warping, or hydraulic failure. On a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, a spongy or pulsating feel, or excessive stopping distances, which could signal warped discs or failing calipers. Inspect the brake discs for scoring, glazing, or uneven wear, and check for any binding or dragging in the parking brake mechanism, which was flagged as inefficient in the 2025-10-17 MOT. Additionally, verify the condition of the rear tyres, as the 2022-07-05 advisory noted offside rear tyre wear, which could lead to uneven load distribution and further accelerated wear if unaddressed. Beyond the mechanical concerns, the vehicle’s tyre tread depths have been a recurring issue, with multiple MOTs failing due to depths below 1.6mm, particularly on the front tyres. Replace all tyres to the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6mm, or consider upgrading to higher-performance or winter tyres if the vehicle is used in adverse conditions. Inspect the front tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which is more common in older vehicles and can compromise structural integrity. Check the 12V battery and associated electrical systems, as the 2025-10-17 failure highlighted a non-functional near-side repeater, which may indicate a failing wiring harness or sensor. Lastly, given the vehicle’s age and the lack of recent service records, schedule a comprehensive mechanical inspection to confirm the condition of fluids (brake, coolant, transmission, and differential), suspension components (shocks, struts, and bushes), and exhaust emissions systems, as these can degrade over time without regular servicing. Prioritise brake maintenance and tyre replacement to ensure roadworthiness and safety.