2018 Ford Independence RS 2.0L Diesel · WM18 FTC

The most recent DVSA MOT test was conducted on 10 July 2026 and resulted in a pass, with a single advisory noted for exhaust corrosion. Looking back over the recent test history, the overall maintenance trend shows signs of mild deterioration rather than outright decline, with exhaust corrosion advisories recurring across multiple tests in 2025 and 2026, and a brake pipe advisory recorded in March 2026. The more concerning event was the failure on 14 November 2025, which was caused by a non-functioning nearside stop lamp and excessively worn rear anti-roll bar linkage pins or bushes on both sides. This failure was addressed and the vehicle subsequently passed the same day, though this indicates that suspension components and basic electrical items were already presenting as marginal at that point. The presence of advisories that have been carried forward, combined with the historical suspension failure, suggests a vehicle whose underbody and chassis ancillaries require ongoing attention rather than one that has been thoroughly remedied. The recorded mileage of 114,587 miles over approximately eight years equates to an annual average of around 14,323 miles, which is somewhat higher than the typical mileage expected for a vehicle of this age. This level of use means greater wear on consumable items such as brake pads, discs, tyres, clutch components and suspension bushes, and it also shortens the service life of timing belts, drive belts and fluid-based maintenance items. The mileage progression through the MOT record appears relatively consistent, with no extended gaps that would indicate long periods of standing, so issues such as seized brake calipers, dry rot on rubber components, and severe underbody corrosion from inactivity are less likely to be a primary concern than accelerated wear on working parts. Given the recurring exhaust corrosion advisories, any prospective buyer should carry out a thorough physical inspection of the entire exhaust system from the manifold gasket right through to the rear silencer, paying particular attention to mounting rubbers, joints and the heat shield, as corroded exhausts can develop splits that produce exhaust leaks, increased cabin noise and ultimately failing emissions readings. The brake pipe advisory from March 2026 is also worth scrutinising, since corroded brake lines represent a safety-critical defect that will only worsen with time; the pipes should be inspected along their full length, particularly at flexible sections and unions, and any signs of surface corrosion, pitting or weeping hydraulic fluid must be addressed before purchase. On a test drive, listen for any brake pedal sponginess or excessive travel that might indicate hydraulic compromise. The rear anti-roll bar linkage failure from late 2025 deserves particular attention, as these components carry significant stress and can wear rapidly on higher mileage vehicles or those driven on poor road surfaces. With the vehicle having passed immediately after replacement, the new parts should still be in good condition, but the buyer should listen for any clonking or rattling noises from the rear suspension over bumps, and check for uneven rear tyre wear which can result from worn or improperly torqued anti-roll bar components. A physical inspection should also confirm that the nearside stop lamp is functioning correctly, as electrical issues can recur if the underlying cause such as a failing bulb holder, switch contact or wiring fault was not properly rectified. Beyond these specific points, the higher than average mileage warrants careful checks of tyre age and sidewall condition, brake disc wear and lipping, coolant and brake fluid condition relative to service intervals, and the general state of suspension bushes, coil springs and wheel bearings, all of which will be subject to accelerated wear on a vehicle of this usage profile.