2014 Ford Transit 2.2L Diesel · YP64 CYY

The most recent DVSA MOT test on the 2014 Ford Transit was conducted on 2025-10-20, resulting in a passing outcome despite the presence of an advisory regarding the offside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint exhibiting slight play. While this advisory is not a failure, its recurrence across multiple MOTs—including in 2024 and 2025—suggests a persistent issue that may warrant closer attention. The vehicle’s overall maintenance trend appears to be inconsistent rather than improving or worsening; the 2025 test shows a return to advisories after a failed MOT in October 2024, where major defects such as leaking power steering components and severely corroded brake pipes were identified. This pattern indicates that while the vehicle has passed recent MOTs, underlying mechanical wear and potential fatigue in suspension and braking systems require vigilance. The recorded mileage of 122,742 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 12 years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of around 10,228 miles per annum, which is typical for this model’s age and common usage patterns. However, the presence of both high and low mileage gaps in the MOT history—such as the 2021 test with no defects followed by a failure in the same year—could imply periods of either light use or prolonged inactivity, which may have exacerbated certain wear issues. Prolonged standing can accelerate corrosion in brake systems, particularly in the brake pipes and associated components, as seen in prior MOT failures. Additionally, suspension components like ball joints and anti-roll bar linkages are more susceptible to wear when subjected to repeated stress, especially if the vehicle has been driven on rough roads or uneven surfaces. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination of this Ford Transit include the suspension system, brakes, and electrical components. The advisories and failures related to the offside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint and track rod end ball joints suggest that the vehicle’s suspension is showing signs of wear, particularly in the lower control arms and ball joints. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when negotiating bumps or sharp turns, as this could indicate loose or worn ball joints. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may signal misalignment or suspension issues, and inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can be a silent but critical sign of age-related degradation. The brake system should be thoroughly examined, including the brake discs, calipers, and master cylinder for signs of corrosion, binding, or excessive heat discolouration. Inspect the brake pipes for any signs of corrosion, particularly around the offside side, and listen for a grinding noise when applying the brakes, which could indicate worn brake pads or damaged discs. In terms of practical checks, given the vehicle’s age and mileage, the 12V battery should be tested for charge retention and overall health, as older vehicles are more prone to battery failure, especially if the vehicle has been left unused for extended periods. Verify that the service book records reflect the completion of scheduled maintenance, such as oil changes, timing belt replacement, and fluid top-ups, as these are critical for preventing catastrophic failures. Check the fluid levels in the brake fluid reservoir, coolant system, and differential, ensuring they are topped up and free from contaminants. Finally, since the vehicle has been subject to significant corrosion issues in the brake system, consider having the brake pipes and associated components inspected for structural integrity, particularly if the vehicle has been stored in a damp or salty environment. If the MOT history shows no major failures but advisories persist, a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is strongly recommended to assess the extent of wear and plan for necessary maintenance before purchase.