2021 Ford Transit 350 Trend Ecoblue 2.0L Diesel · WM70 HCL

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 11 February 2026 returned a pass with no defects or advisories recorded, which on the surface suggests the vehicle is in sound roadworthy condition at the point of test. The preceding test on 12 February 2025 also passed but carried an advisory regarding a severely deteriorated offside front outer CV (constant velocity) joint boot, classified under the 6.1.7 (g) (i) minor defect category. The 2024 test was clean with no recorded issues. Across the three-year MOT history, there are no failures, no dangerous or major defects, and only a single minor advisory, indicating that the overall maintenance trend is broadly stable rather than deteriorating. The advisory related to a CV boot is a common wear item on high-mileage commercial vehicles, and its absence from the latest test suggests either prompt remedial replacement or that further deterioration has not yet reached reportable threshold. Nevertheless, given that the defect was flagged as severely deteriorated at the prior test, the joint itself should be examined carefully at the time of purchase, as a split boot that was not renewed can lead to grease loss, contamination by water and road debris, and ultimately premature failure of the CV joint. With a recorded mileage of 96,011 miles over approximately five years, this Transit has averaged around 19,200 miles per annum, a usage profile consistent with intensive commercial or fleet operation rather than light private use. Such accumulation rates accelerate wear on consumable and mechanical components alike, particularly braking system components, suspension bushes and coil springs, clutch assemblies (where applicable), drivetrain mountings, and the dual-mass flywheel on the manual variant or torque converter on the automatic. The high mileage combined with the EcoBlue diesel powertrain also warrants scrutiny of the timing belt or cam belt service interval, turbocharger condition, EGR and diesel particulate filter functionality, as well as any historical warning lights recorded on the dashboard. The mileage progression between MOTs appears consistent and linear, which is reassuring and suggests no extended periods of standing or odometer irregularities. There is no recorded mileage gap that would indicate long-term inactivity, so age-related degradation from standing such as brake disc pitting, fluid deterioration, or underbody neglect is less of a concern than mechanical fatigue from sustained use. For a prospective buyer conducting a physical inspection, the CV boot advisory noted at the 2025 test should take priority. Examine the offside front outer drive shaft joint area for any residual grease deposits on the inside of the wheel and surrounding suspension components, which would indicate an active or unresolved split. On the road, listen for a rhythmic clicking or knocking from the front corner when turning at full lock, particularly during low-speed manoeuvres, as this is characteristic of a worn CV joint. Additionally, lightly rotate the joint by hand with the wheel raised to detect any perceptible play or gritty resistance. Beyond the CV joint, inspect all other drive shaft boots for splits or perished sections, as perishing rubber deteriorates progressively with age and underbonnet heat exposure. Check the condition and age of the tyres, looking for uneven shoulder wear which may point to suspension misalignment or worn bushes, and verify that the sidewalls are free from cracking or perishing given the commercial duty cycle. Given the high annual mileage and commercial application, several time- and distance-based service items should be verified independently of the MOT record. Confirm the timing belt replacement history against Ford's recommended interval for the EcoBlue engine, as neglecting this can result in catastrophic engine damage. Inspect the brake discs for lipping and the pads for remaining material thickness, as commercial use places heavy demand on the braking system. Check the condition of the rear leaf springs, shackles, and bushes if fitted, as these are known wear points on the Transit platform and can produce clonking noises over uneven surfaces. Verify the service book stamps or digital service history to confirm that oil and filter changes, fuel filter renewals, and AdBlue system servicing have been carried out at appropriate intervals. Under the bonnet, look for any signs of oil or coolant leaks around the turbocharger, oil filter housing, and coolant pipes. Finally, test the 12V battery under load, as commercial vehicles often run auxiliary equipment that places additional strain on the electrical system, and check that all warning lamps extinguish promptly after engine start to confirm the emissions control systems, including the DPF and EGR, are functioning correctly.