2016 Ford Ranger 3.2L Diesel · YP66 FVT

The most recent MOT, carried out on 18 October 2025, was passed with a single minor fault – the nearside registration‑plate lamp was inoperative. Over the preceding decade the vehicle has shown a pattern of recurring advisories rather than outright failures: repeated tyre‑wear alerts, leaf‑spring bush wear, thin front brake pads and occasional wiper deficiencies. The fact that the 2024 wiper fault was rectified before the 2025 test, and that no major defects have been recorded since 2022, suggests a generally stable maintenance trajectory, albeit one that relies on addressing wear items as they appear. At 161,378 mi the Ranger averages roughly 16,100 mi per annum, a mileage level that is high for a ten‑year‑old model and indicative of substantial use, possibly in commercial or fleet service. Such utilisation accelerates consumable wear – tyres, brakes, suspension components and drivetrain fluids – and can also increase the likelihood of hidden corrosion, especially if the vehicle has spent periods idle between trips. There are no obvious mileage gaps in the MOT record, so the accumulation appears steady rather than a sudden surge, reinforcing the expectation of progressive component fatigue. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the tyre set. The 2023 advisory flagged slight cracking or perishing of all four tyres, and rear tyres have been flagged as close to the legal limit on several occasions. Inspect tread depth across the width of each tyre, look for sidewall cracks, bulges or uneven wear that could signal mis‑alignment or worn suspension bushings. During a test drive listen for clunking or squeaking from the rear leaf‑spring anchors, especially when traversing bumps, as the 2023 advisories noted slight wear in both the nearside and offside rear leaf‑spring bushes. Verify that the front brake pads have been replaced since the 2022 thin‑pad advisory; check pad thickness, disc condition and feel for any pulsation or shudder under hard braking, which would indicate disc wear or caliper binding. Beyond tyres and brakes, confirm that the nearside registration‑plate lamp operates and that the windscreen wiper now clears the glass effectively, as the 2024 failure suggested a functional deficiency. Examine the battery terminals for corrosion and test the 12 V battery’s cranking voltage, given the vehicle’s age and likely calendar‑related degradation. Verify that the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed within the recommended intervals – fluids can break down over time even on low‑usage vehicles. Finally, inspect the under‑carriage for rust, especially around the suspension mounting points and exhaust system, and ensure that any service stamps correspond with the mileage and age, providing confidence that routine maintenance has been observed throughout the vehicle’s life.