2019 Ford Transit Courier 1.5L Diesel · WM68 SFO

The vehicle presented for its most recent MOT test on 2 February 2026 and achieved a Pass, although two advisories were recorded for oil leaks from both the engine and gearbox that were not considered excessive. The preceding test on 26 January 2026 resulted in a Dangerous failure due to a leaking brake hose on the hydraulic braking system, alongside advisories for the same engine and gearbox oil leaks and light oil misting on both front shock absorbers. While the most recent pass is reassuring, the escalation from a clean history in 2022, 2023 and 2024 to a Dangerous failure and a series of advisories on subsequent tests indicates a worsening maintenance trend. The transition from advisories on brake pads and discs in early 2025 to a hydraulic system failure less than twelve months later warrants careful scrutiny, as it suggests that wear items are being identified but potentially not addressed promptly. The recorded mileage of 96,843 miles over approximately seven years equates to an annual usage of around 13,835 miles, which is notably high for a light commercial vehicle of this age. This figure suggests the vehicle has likely seen consistent, perhaps commercial or high-mileage private use, with no obvious gaps in recorded mileage indicating long periods of standing. High annual mileage accelerates wear on consumables including brake pads, discs, clutches, tyres, suspension components and drivetrain parts, and increases the likelihood that major service items such as timing belts, water pumps and turbochargers have either been recently replaced or are approaching their service intervals. The recurring advisories for engine and gearbox oil leaks, even at a non-excessive level, warrant close physical inspection beneath the vehicle on a dry surface for fresh drips or staining, and on a test drive any signs of blue exhaust smoke, a burning oil smell or a drop in oil level between dips should be noted. The light oil misting on both front shock absorbers is an early indicator of seal degradation; on a test drive listen for knocking or clonking noises over bumps and uneven road surfaces, and inspect for uneven tyre wear which often accompanies worn dampers. Given the brake hose failure and earlier advisories for worn inner brake pads and front brake discs, a prospective buyer should confirm that the brake hoses, pads and discs have all been renewed with quality components, check for any sponginess or excessive travel in the brake pedal, and listen for brake shudder under firm application which would indicate disc warping from the high mileage. Beyond the recorded defects, the age and high mileage of this Transit Courier demand attention to time-based degradations irrespective of the MOT record. Brake fluid is hygroscopic and should have been changed within the last two to four years regardless of mileage, so verify the service history for a recent fluid change and check for any spongy pedal response. The 12V battery is likely approaching the end of its typical service life and should be load tested, while the cooling system should be inspected for perished hoses and aged coolant. Tyres should be examined not only for tread depth but for sidewall cracking and perishing consistent with age, and the underside of the vehicle should be inspected for structural corrosion, particularly around suspension mounting points, subframes and the rear axle area. Finally, given the 2025 headlamp bulb fitting issues, verify that both headlamp units are correctly seated and that the beam pattern is symmetrical, and request evidence of full service history including cambelt replacement intervals applicable to the engine fitted.