2017 Ford C-MAX 1.5L Diesel · EK17 VHX

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 24 January 2026, although the test concluded with advisories regarding the inner wear of both front tyres. Reviewing the historical data, the maintenance trend appears reactive rather than proactive. The record shows a dangerous failure in February 2025 due to critically thin rear brake pads and a major failure in February 2024 concerning a deep cut in a front tyre. This pattern suggests a tendency to address mechanical defects only when they reach a legal failure point, which may indicate a lack of comprehensive preventative servicing. With a recorded mileage of 43,199 miles over approximately nine years, the vehicle has averaged fewer than 5,000 miles per year. This is significantly lower than the national average and suggests the car has been used for short journeys or has spent extended periods stationary. While this low usage preserves the internal components of the engine and drivetrain, it introduces specific risks associated with stagnation, such as the degradation of rubber seals, the accumulation of moisture in the exhaust system, and the potential for brake calipers to seize or bind. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the steering and suspension geometry. The recurring advisories and failures regarding inner tyre wear strongly suggest a misalignment of the front axle or worn suspension bushes and track rod ends. During a test drive, listen for any clunking sounds when turning the wheel and observe if the vehicle drifts or requires constant correction to maintain a straight line. It is highly recommended that a full four-wheel alignment is performed and verified, as continuing to drive with inner edge wear will lead to premature tyre failure and compromised handling. Given the low annual mileage, a physical inspection must focus on age-related degradation rather than wear-and-tear. Examine all tyre sidewalls for fine cracking or perishing, which occurs when rubber hardens over time regardless of tread depth. Check the service history to ensure that engine oil and brake fluids have been changed based on time intervals rather than mileage alone, as these fluids degrade and attract moisture. Finally, verify the health of the 12V battery and inspect the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion or pitting, which are common symptoms of a vehicle that has stood for long periods.