2021 Ford Transit 350 Leader Ecoblue A 2.0L Diesel · WN71 TZB

Brake wear advisories dominate the recent MOT history, with the 2025‑10‑22 test recording front and rear brake disc wear and thin front pads, alongside a minor off‑side upper windscreen damage note. Although the vehicle passed that test, the emergence of three brake‑related advisories within a single year marks a shift from the clean 2024‑11‑14 pass, indicating that disc and pad material is approaching the end of its service life. At 75,856 mi after roughly five years, the average annual accumulation is about 15,000 mi, well above the typical 8‑12 k mi for a light‑commercial van of this age. The relatively steady mileage progression, with no large gaps between MOT dates, suggests continuous use rather than prolonged storage, which accelerates wear on consumables such as brake linings, tyre tread, and suspension bushings. The higher mileage also raises the likelihood of cumulative fatigue in steering components and drivetrain bearings, even though no specific defects have been recorded. When inspecting the brake system, feel for any pulsation or excessive travel in the pedal, listen for squealing or grinding on initial deceleration, and watch the discs through the wheel arches for scoring or uneven wear. Thin pads often produce a high‑pitched squeal that diminishes as they wear further, while worn discs can cause a juddering sensation under braking and may be visible as shallow grooves or rust spots. Given the advisories, budgeting for disc resurfacing or replacement and new pads within the next few thousand miles is prudent, and a thorough inspection of the caliper mounting bolts and brake pipe condition should be included in any pre‑purchase check. The upper windscreen damage, noted as not impairing the driver’s view, should be examined for any developing cracks or water ingress, especially around the edge where the glass meets the frame. A visual inspection for signs of delamination or moisture on the interior surface will confirm whether the issue remains superficial. Beyond the brakes and glass, a standard road‑test should verify steering alignment, suspension smoothness, and exhaust condition, as the mileage level makes progressive wear on these areas more probable even in the absence of recorded MOT defects.