2020 Ford Transit 350 Leader Ecoblue 2.0L Diesel · WN70 WBZ

The most recent DVSA MOT test, conducted on 10 September 2025, resulted in a clean pass with no defects, advisories, or minor issues recorded. This continues a generally stable maintenance trend, following an identical pass in September 2024. However, the earlier test history from September 2023 warrants attention, as it shows a prior failure alongside several advisories and a minor defect that were subsequently resolved or recorded at the time. The absence of any recurring or persistent advisories over the last two consecutive tests suggests that the vehicle has been brought up to a satisfactory standard, but the brief span of available MOT data means a prospective buyer should remain vigilant regarding the underlying mechanical issues that were flagged. With a recorded mileage of 120,474 miles over a six-year lifespan, the vehicle has averaged approximately 20,079 miles annually, which is notably high for a commercial van of this age. Such sustained, high-mileage operation typically accelerates wear on consumable drivetrain and chassis components, including suspension bushes, coil springs, anti-roll bar linkages, brake discs, pads, and clutch assemblies if fitted with one. Furthermore, diesel engines subjected to continuous heavy use often suffer from premature turbocharger wear, EGR valve carbon build-up, and DPF clogging if predominantly used for short journeys, although sustained high mileage often implies consistent motorway running which can be less taxing on emissions equipment. Any gaps in the recorded mileage progression should also be verified against the V5 and service book to ensure continuity and rule out potential clock discrepancies. Given the advisory items recorded at the 2023 test, a thorough physical inspection is strongly advised before purchase. The damaged or bent fuel straps should be checked for proper tank retention, as insecure straps can lead to dangerous fuel pipe abrasion or tank movement, and this is a relatively inexpensive repair if addressed promptly. The offside rear brake back plate absence and the broken driver rear brake wear sensor indicate recent rear brake intervention; on a test drive, listen for metallic grinding or squealing from the rear wheels under light braking, and check for uneven or accelerated wear on the rear tyres which may indicate a binding caliper or neglected pad replacement. Additionally, the near-side headlamp aim defect from 2023 should be re-verified, and it would be prudent to confirm the offside windscreen has not deteriorated further. Beyond the documented MOT history, several age and mileage-appropriate checks should be conducted. The 2020 build date places this Transit at six years old, meaning the timing belt, if not already replaced on schedule, may be approaching its manufacturer-recommended interval. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time and should be serviced on a calendar basis regardless of mileage, so confirming the date of the last fluid change is essential. The 12-volt battery health should be tested, as commercial vehicles often endure heavy parasitic loads. Finally, inspect the tyres for sidewall perishing and cracking typical of older rubber, examine the underside and suspension components for standing corrosion or oil leaks, and verify that the clutch, if applicable, does not exhibit slipping or juddering under load, all of which are likely given the van's substantial working life.