2012 Ford S-MAX 1.6L Diesel · E3 AAY

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance history reveals a persistent trend of unresolved mechanical wear. As of the most recent test in April 2026 at 140,927 miles, the car passed despite a recurring oil leak and documented play in the steering rack inner joints. This specific steering fault has appeared in every annual MOT record dating back to 2023, indicating that the owner has opted to accept the minimum legal safety standard rather than replacing the worn components. At 140,927 miles, the S-Max has averaged approximately 10,000 miles per year over its fourteen year life, aligning with national averages for a vehicle of this age. The usage pattern appears consistent, with a 11,703-mile interval between April 2024 and April 2025, and another 5,628 miles covered in the last twelve months. This regular use suggests the vehicle has not been subject to long periods of sitting, which often leads to more rapid degradation of rubber components and fluid seals. A buyer must prioritise a physical inspection of the steering system, as the multi-year play in the inner joints will lead to poor steering precision and accelerated tyre wear. The persistent oil leak, while noted as non-excessive across three consecutive years, requires monitoring to ensure it does not originate from a high-pressure point or a worsening engine seal failure. Attention should also be paid to the front suspension, as the 2023 record flagged worn suspension arm bushes and misting rear shock absorbers, which are nearing the end of their functional life at this mileage.