2021 Ford Transit Custom 280LIMITD Eblue 2.0L Diesel · YP71 OBG

The most recent DVSA MOT test recorded against this 2021 Ford Transit Custom was conducted on 3 March 2026 and resulted in a fail, with two major defects cited against the rear tyres. Both the offside and nearside rear tyres were deemed to have cuts in excess of the prescribed limits, with damage deep enough to expose the ply or cords on what is a 215/65/16c fitment. It should be noted that a pass certificate was issued on the same date, which suggests that the vehicle was presented for retest immediately after remedial tyre replacement was carried out and the car subsequently met the required standard. The 2025 test history shows a similar pattern, with an initial fail for nearside headlamp aim being too low, followed by a pass, alongside advisories for the same rear tyres noting slight damage, cracking or perishing, and a minor advisory for lower windscreen damage not affecting the driver's view. The overall maintenance trend indicates that the vehicle has been kept in broadly roadworthy condition, but the recurring tyre deterioration on the rear axle points to either a loading characteristic inherent to the vehicle's commercial use or a tendency for the rear tyres to age or sustain damage prematurely, something that warrants close scrutiny at the point of purchase. With 52,140 miles recorded over approximately five years of service, this Transit Custom is accumulating mileage at a rate of roughly 10,400 miles per annum, which is a typical usage profile for a light commercial vehicle of this type. This rate of accumulation is consistent with regular daily operation rather than periods of extended standing, and there are no unusual gaps or sudden surges in the recorded odometer readings that would suggest clock inconsistency or sporadic use. Moderate commercial mileage of this nature places predictable wear upon the clutch, dual-mass flywheel if fitted, turbocharger, brakes and suspension components, though it is not high enough to suggest imminent major drivetrain refurbishment. The relatively steady annual accumulation is in fact a positive indicator, as vehicles that accumulate consistent mileage tend to suffer less from the corrosion and fluid degradation issues that plague low-use or stored vehicles, particularly in the braking system and underbody. The repeated advisories against the rear tyres for cracking and perishing, culminating in a major defect for cuts exposing the ply, indicate that this is a known weakness on this particular vehicle and should be the focus of a careful physical inspection prior to purchase. On examination, the prospective buyer should closely inspect all four tyres, not merely the rears, paying particular attention to sidewall cracking, bulges, and any exposed cords, as the same age-related degradation may be present on the front axle even where not previously flagged. On a test drive, any pulling to one side under braking, vibration through the steering wheel, or a thumping noise from the rear axle could indicate a damaged or deformed tyre, and uneven rear tyre wear may also point to a sagging rear suspension, worn leaf spring bushes, or overloaded operation. Given the commercial nature of the vehicle, the load area should be inspected for evidence of heavy or concentrated loading that may have accelerated rear axle wear, and the rear shock absorbers and bump stops should be examined for leaks or physical damage. Beyond the tyre issues, the buyer should carry out several age and mileage-appropriate checks consistent with a five-year-old commercial vehicle. Brake discs should be inspected for lipping, corrosion around the outer circumference, and any signs of binding calipers, particularly given that commercial vans are frequently subject to short urban journeys that promote disc corrosion. The 12-volt battery should be tested for state of health, as commercial vehicles with frequent stop-start cycles and ancillary electrical loads from chilled loads, interior lighting or telematics are prone to premature battery failure. Fluid services should be verified through the service book, with particular attention to brake fluid, which degrades on a calendar basis regardless of mileage and should be renewed at least every two years, alongside the diesel particulate filter, which on EcoBlue-engined Transits can suffer from incomplete regeneration if the vehicle is predominantly used for short trips. Underneath the vehicle, the buyer should look for any signs of oil or coolant leaks from the engine, gearbox or power steering, check for corrosion along the load area floor and wheel arches, and confirm that the timing belt or, if chain-driven, the timing chain service interval has been observed, as any omission here would be a costly future repair.