2018 Ford Transit 2.0L Diesel · WN18 LZX

The most recent MOT test on 2026-04-01 resulted in a passing outcome with a single minor defect related to the central stop lamp system and two advisories—one concerning offside front rear wishbone bush splitting and another regarding a central stop lamp issue. While the vehicle has consistently passed MOTs since 2022, the presence of recurring advisories—particularly those linked to suspension components, oil leaks, and brake wear—indicates a pattern of wear that demands closer scrutiny. The advisories from previous tests, such as the offside front suspension arm pin or bush wear and oil leaks, suggest progressive degradation in critical suspension and lubrication systems, which could escalate if not addressed. The lack of major failures in recent years is encouraging, but the high mileage and repeated advisories warrant a thorough inspection to confirm whether these issues are stabilising or worsening with continued use. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 116,743 miles at the time of this assessment represents a notably high annual usage rate of approximately 14,593 miles per year, which is disproportionate to its age of eight years. Such mileage accumulation is typical of commercial or high-demand vehicles but places significant stress on consumables, suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components. The absence of long periods of inactivity—common in lower-mileage vehicles—means that fluids, seals, and wear items may have experienced accelerated degradation due to constant operation. This pattern is particularly concerning for suspension components, which are already flagged with advisories of worn bushes and potential splitting, as high-mileage usage exacerbates fatigue in these areas. Additionally, the brake advisories from 2023—particularly thin pads and worn discs—highlight the need for vigilance, as excessive braking under heavy loads can accelerate pad wear and lead to disc warping or binding. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination are the suspension system, brakes, and lubrication systems. Focus on the front and rear suspension arms, particularly the offside side, where advisories have been recorded. Look for signs of bush splitting, excessive play in suspension linkages, or clunking noises during cornering or over bumps, which may indicate worn or failing suspension components. Listen for irregular suspension behaviour, such as uneven ride height or excessive movement when the vehicle is lifted onto its suspension. The oil leak advisories suggest a need to check for oil contamination in the engine bay, particularly around the valve cover, oil filter housing, or oil pan gasket. A visual inspection for oil stains or discoloured areas under the vehicle is essential, and a test drive should include acceleration and deceleration to detect any smoke or unusual noises from the engine bay. In addition to the above, the brake system should be thoroughly inspected. The advisories from 2023 indicate that the front inner brake pads and offside rear outer tyres are wearing thin, which may necessitate replacement soon. Inspect the brake discs for signs of warping, scoring, or excessive thickness reduction, and check for binding or excessive play in the calipers. A brake test drive should include a slow, controlled approach to a stop to listen for grinding noises, which could indicate metal-to-metal contact between pads and discs. The brake hydraulic reservoir being close to minimum mark in 2023 also warrants attention; ensure the reservoir is topped up with the correct brake fluid and check for leaks in the hydraulic lines. Finally, given the high mileage and the advisories present, a comprehensive fluid check is advisable. Top up or replace fluids such as engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and power steering fluid, as these can degrade over time, especially with frequent use. Consider a professional inspection of the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion, as well as a check of the vehicle’s structural integrity for signs of rust or damage, particularly in areas prone to moisture exposure.