2001 Ford Transit 2.5L Diesel · X326 ENT

A recurring front‑end concern defines this Transit’s recent MOT record – the central front oil leak and slightly noisy front wheel bearings have been flagged in every test since 2025, and the same trio of issues appeared on the failed inspection of 13 April 2026, which was only remedied enough to achieve a pass on 17 April 2026. Apart from a single rear stop‑lamp fault that caused the 2026 failure, the vehicle has otherwise cleared its MOTs without major defects, indicating that the core problem lies in the front engine‑bay sealing and bearing condition rather than a broader deterioration. At 134,677 mi the van averages roughly 5,400 mi per year, well below the typical utilisation for a 25‑year‑old commercial vehicle. Such low annual mileage can be a double‑edged sword: while it reduces cumulative wear on drivetrain and suspension components, prolonged periods of inactivity can accelerate oil seal hardening, bearing corrosion and tyre sidewall ageing. The MOT history shows no large gaps between tests, suggesting the vehicle has been kept on the road regularly enough to avoid the severe rust issues that sometimes accompany long storage, but the low mileage still warrants a close look at components that suffer from age‑related degradation despite limited use. When you inspect the van, focus first on the front oil leak. Look for fresh oil deposits around the centre of the engine block, the timing chain cover and the front crankcase breather; any wetness or oil staining on the under‑tray or on the ground after a short run points to a seal that may soon fail completely. The wheel‑bearing advisories mean you should listen for a low‑level hum or growl that changes with vehicle speed and intensifies when turning left or right – a classic sign of bearing wear. During a test drive, feel for any looseness or wobble in the front wheels, especially when applying light braking or negotiating bumps, and watch for uneven tyre wear that could indicate bearing play. The rear stop‑lamp fault recorded in April 2026 should be verified – confirm that the rear‑right stop lamp illuminates promptly and that the additional position lamp functions correctly, as lighting compliance is essential for road legality. The near‑side rear inner tyre bulge noted in 2025, although only slight, merits a visual and tactile inspection; any progression in the bulge or a soft spot when pressed suggests the tyre may be nearing the end of its service life and should be replaced. Finally, given the persistent front‑end advisories, it would be prudent to have a qualified mechanic assess the front oil seals, replace the front wheel bearings if any play or noise persists, and check the condition of the surrounding suspension bushes and coil springs before committing to purchase.