2018 Ford Transit Custom 2.0L Diesel · WN68 BVT

The most recent DVSA examination on 15 October 2025 returned a Pass with no defects recorded, which is the result you would want to see on a used van of this age and mileage. Importantly, the same date also shows a prior Fail on the same visit for an Offside Rear Stop lamp not working, classified as a Prescribed Repairable Standard (PRS) item; this is a minor lighting fault that was clearly rectified on site to enable the Pass certificate to be issued. Looking back through the history, there is a very similar pattern from 12 months earlier on 15 October 2024, where an Offside Headlamp aim too low PRS failure was immediately followed by a clean Pass. Aside from these two trivial lighting and headlamp alignment issues, which are entirely consistent with routine commercial vehicle wear and tear, there are no advisories, no corrosion concerns, no brake or suspension flags, and no emissions issues recorded across any of the tests. The overall maintenance trend is therefore stable and reassuring, indicating that the vehicle has been kept in good roadworthy condition throughout its life with no recurring mechanical defects. With a recorded mileage of 70,393 miles over approximately eight years, this Transit Custom is averaging around 8,800 miles per year, which sits squarely within the typical band for a light commercial vehicle of its type and age. There are no obvious gaps or unusual step changes between the recorded MOTs, suggesting reasonably consistent use rather than long periods of standing or, conversely, unusually high-intensity running. Mileage of this level for a Ford Transit Custom of this vintage is not particularly demanding on the drivetrain, particularly given the proven durability of the Duratorq diesel engine, and the modest annual figure should mean that major wear items such as the clutch, turbocharger, dual-mass flywheel and timing belt service intervals have not been excessively stressed. It does, however, still represent meaningful commercial use, so consumables and certain chassis components will have done meaningful work. Given the clean MOT record and absence of any advisories, there are no specific recurring defects to chase, but a prospective buyer of any eight-year-old commercial vehicle should still carry out a number of practical physical inspections prior to purchase. Start with the tyres: check the sidewalls carefully for age-related perishing or cracking, as rubber degrades with calendar age irrespective of tread depth, and verify that the wear pattern is even across both axles, which would otherwise point to tracking, suspension misalignment or worn bushes. Inspect the brake discs for any lipping or visible corrosion around the outer edge, as standing time or light use can cause surface rust that, while not an MOT failure in itself, may indicate seized or binding calipers; on the test drive, listen for any scraping or grinding under light braking and feel for any shudder through the pedal or steering wheel. With this mileage, the front discs and pads are likely approaching or due for renewal, and the rear shoes or discs should be inspected for wear. Beyond the braking system, give attention to the age-sensitive items that MOT testing does not fully cover. Check the 12-volt battery for secure mounting and signs of low charge, particularly if the van has been standing, as flat or weak batteries are common on commercials that do multiple short trips. Verify the service book stamps and confirm that the timing belt or timing chain service interval has been observed in line with manufacturer schedule, along with recent replacement of the engine oil, fuel filter, air filter and, critically, the brake fluid and coolant which degrade with calendar age. On the test drive, listen for any clonks or knocking from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn anti-roll bar bushes, drop links or coil spring seats, and pay attention to any blue smoke on start-up or under load which could suggest turbo or injector wear. Finally, examine the load area floor and inner wheel arches for any corrosion, check the rear doors for smooth operation of the hinges and check that all interior and exterior lighting including the offside rear stop lamp and headlamp alignment now function correctly, confirming that the recent PRS repairs were carried out to a proper standard rather than a temporary fix.