2018 Ford Transit Custom 2.0L Diesel · WH05 JSS

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 3 October 2025 resulted in a pass, though three minor defects were recorded. The nearside and offside front windows were noted as excessively tinted without adversely affecting the driver's view, a cosmetic and regulatory observation rather than a mechanical concern. More notably, the offside front lower suspension ball joint dust cover was recorded as severely deteriorated, a defect that has now appeared across two consecutive tests and warrants close attention. Reviewing the broader trajectory, the 2023 and 2022 tests were entirely clean with no advisories, but the 2024 test introduced rear brake pad wear, a nearside front tyre worn close to the legal limit, and the first appearance of the deteriorating ball joint dust covers. This represents a mild deterioration in maintenance condition rather than a sudden decline, suggesting that consumable wear items and protective rubber components are beginning to demand attention as the vehicle matures. With 70,338 miles recorded over an eight-year service life, the Ford Transit Custom averages approximately 8,792 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a commercial vehicle of this type, though slightly below the average for active fleet use. This mileage profile suggests the vehicle has seen consistent but not excessively demanding work, allowing reasonable time for routine servicing intervals to be observed. There are no significant mileage gaps between tests indicative of prolonged standing, and the accumulation between annual MOTs appears steady, which is mechanically favourable. However, even at moderate annual mileage, commercial vehicles of this age and weight class place considerable load on suspension, braking, and drivetrain components, so wear progression on these systems should be evaluated in proportion to the vehicle's working history rather than its odometer reading alone. The recurring advisory and minor items recorded across the 2024 and 2025 tests provide clear priorities for a pre-purchase inspection. The deteriorating lower suspension ball joint dust covers on both sides, now persistent across two consecutive tests, indicate that the protective rubber boots have failed, allowing contamination ingress into the ball joint assembly. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, particularly over speed bumps, potholes, or during full steering lock manoeuvres, as this would suggest the joints themselves are beginning to fail rather than merely the covers. The 2024 advisory regarding rear brake pads wearing thin should be taken as confirmation that a pad replacement was due or has since been carried out, and the condition of the rear brake discs should be physically inspected for lipping, scoring, or corrosion, particularly given that the nearside front tyre was also flagged as worn close to the legal limit and worn on the edge, which can indicate an underlying tracking or suspension geometry issue. A physical inspection of all four tyres for age-related sidewall cracking, even if tread depth remains adequate, is advisable on a vehicle of this age, and the front wheel alignment should be verified to prevent premature uneven wear from recurring. Beyond the recorded defects, several age- and mileage-appropriate checks are strongly recommended for a commercial vehicle of this vintage. The 12-volt battery should be tested for cranking performance and state of charge, as commercial vehicles frequently suffer from parasitic drain and battery degradation, particularly if the vehicle has been used for short trips with frequent stop-start cycles. Brake fluid should be assessed for age-related moisture absorption, with a fluid change advisable every two years regardless of mileage, and the condition of the brake calipers examined for binding or seized slider mechanisms, which are common on vehicles that stand for extended periods between duties. The cooling system should be pressure-tested and inspected for leaks at the water pump, thermostat housing, and radiator, with attention paid to the condition of the auxiliary drive belt and tensioner. The underside of the vehicle should be examined for structural corrosion, particularly around the rear axle mounting points, jacking points, and suspension subframes, as commercial Transits are known to develop corrosion in these areas from road salt exposure. Finally, verify the completeness of the service book stamps or digital service history and confirm that the cambelt or timing chain replacement interval has been observed according to Ford's recommended schedule for the engine fitted.