2017 Ford Ranger 2.2L Diesel · YM66 HHJ

The most recent MOT on 17 March 2026 was a pass, but it carried an advisory for a nail in the nearside rear tyre and a minor note that the front upper suspension arm ball‑joint dust covers are severely deteriorated on both sides. This follows a failure three days earlier for the same tyre nail and a major fault with the engine malfunction‑indicator lamp (MIL). Earlier in the record the vehicle also failed in January 2025 for a non‑functioning MIL, dangerously thin front brake pads, a damaged windscreen and tyre wear warnings, before being re‑tested and passing the next day. The pattern shows a reactive maintenance approach – serious faults are being addressed just enough to pass re‑tests, but recurring issues such as the MIL fault and deteriorating suspension dust covers suggest that underlying problems have not been fully resolved. At 114,830 miles for a 2017 Ford Ranger the annual average is roughly 12,800 miles, which is well above the typical 8‑10 000 miles per year for a light‑commercial vehicle. This level of utilisation points to sustained load‑bearing duty, likely involving frequent stop‑start cycles, heavy payloads and a higher rate of wear on consumables. The mileage accumulation also means that components such as the suspension bushings, engine mounts, drivetrain bearings and brake hardware have been subjected to considerable stress, and any latent wear may be approaching the end of its serviceable life. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the engine MIL issue. A diagnostic scan is essential to confirm whether the fault lies with the lamp circuit, a sensor, or a genuine engine fault; any stored fault codes should be cleared only after the root cause is remedied. The severely deteriorated ball‑joint dust covers are a warning sign of potential ball‑joint wear – inspect the upper ball joints for play by rocking the wheel at the 12 o’clock position and listen for clunking when the steering is turned or when the vehicle passes over bumps. If excessive play is felt, the ball joints may need replacement to avoid steering imprecision or premature suspension failure. The tyre advisories indicate a nail in the nearside rear tyre and both rear tyres close to the legal tread limit; these should be replaced promptly, and a thorough tyre inspection for sidewall damage or embedded objects is advisable. Verify that the front brake pads have been renewed since the dangerous finding; measure pad thickness and check the discs for scoring or glazing, and during a test drive feel for any pulsation, shudder or reduced braking efficiency. Beyond the recorded defects, a vehicle of this age and mileage should be examined for age‑related deterioration. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for cracking or dry‑rot, especially if the vehicle has spent periods stationary. Check the 12‑volt battery for voltage and cranking performance, as prolonged idle periods can lead to sulphation. Examine the under‑carriage and suspension components for corrosion, especially around mounting points and brake caliper pins, which can cause binding. Verify that the service book shows regular oil changes, coolant flushes and timing‑belt (or chain) inspections at the manufacturer‑specified intervals; fluid condition should be assessed – dark or gritty oil, discoloured coolant or contaminated brake fluid are indicators that a time‑based service is overdue. A comprehensive visual and functional inspection, coupled with a professional diagnostic readout, will give a clear picture of whether the Ranger’s mechanical condition justifies its price and intended use.