2021 Ford Transit Connect 1.5L Diesel · YA70 VEM

A persistent pattern of oil leakage from the engine, recorded at both the 2025 and 2026 MOT tests as not yet excessive, forms the most consistent mechanical theme in this Transit Connect's history. While the level has not warranted failure, the repeat advisories suggest an active seal or gasket issue that will require monitoring and likely rectification as the vehicle continues in service. The most recent test on 21 January 2026 returned a pass alongside this oil leak advisory, indicating that no components have yet deteriorated to the point of test failure but the trend is one that warrants close attention. Earlier in the timeline, the 2024 test cycle also surfaced wear-related advisories covering both rear brake discs and rear brake pads, together with tyres approaching the legal limit at offside front and nearside rear positions. These items were resolved either through replacement following a failure on 12 January 2024 or by the subsequent pass one week later on 19 January 2024. Notably, the only outright failure recorded was for a nearside front tyre with a cut exposing the ply or cords, which is an isolated safety defect rather than evidence of systemic deterioration. With 104,330 miles recorded over approximately five years, this Transit Connect has covered around 20,866 miles annually, which is a high accumulation rate for its age and indicative of sustained commercial or fleet-style use. There are no significant gaps in the MOT testing history, with annual tests consistently recorded from 2024 onwards, suggesting the vehicle has remained in continuous service rather than being laid up. High annual mileage of this nature accelerates wear on consumable and mechanical components including brake friction material, suspension bushes and bearings, clutch assemblies, dual-mass flywheels where applicable, and drivetrain mountings. The combined evidence of high mileage and recurring brake and tyre advisories in 2024 is consistent with a working vehicle that is accumulating wear at a steady rate across its friction and contact components. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the engine oil leak, as any progression beyond the not yet excessive threshold could eventually result in a failure at the next test. On inspection, look for fresh oil staining on the underside of the engine block, timing cover, sump, and surrounding components, and check the oil level on the dipstick to confirm it remains within the marked range. Smell for any burnt oil odour from the engine bay during a cold start, and listen for any change in engine note that might suggest the leak is contaminating the auxiliary belt or alternator. Given the rear brake disc and pad advisories from 2024, it is prudent to confirm whether the discs were replaced or simply skimmed at that time, as worn or pitted rear discs that were not renewed may now be approaching the threshold again. On a test drive, listen for any grinding, squealing, or pulsation through the brake pedal, particularly under firm application from higher speeds. The tyre advisories from 2024 also merit a close visual check of all four corners for uneven shoulder wear, which can be symptomatic of front suspension wear, worn track rod ends, or deteriorated bushes on a high-mileage vehicle. On the road, pay particular attention to any steering pull to one side, wandering at speed, or clonking noises emanating from the front suspension when traversing speed humps or uneven road surfaces. Check the condition of the tyres themselves, looking for cuts, bulges, or uneven tread wear across the contact patch. Given the high annual mileage and commercial-style usage profile, a thorough inspection of the clutch operation, gear change quality, and any signs of drivetrain vibration under load would be worthwhile, as these components are subject to accelerated wear under such operating conditions.