2014 FORD S-MAX2.0L Diesel

The 2014 Ford S-Max has demonstrated a concerning pattern of repeated MOT failures despite no recorded defects, with the most recent test on 11 December 2025—just three months ago—still showing a pass. The consecutive failures in January 2025 and December 2024, both at similar mileages (92,280 and 91,505 respectively), suggest either a persistent underlying issue or an inconsistent testing process. The lack of specific fault codes in these failures raises suspicion, as repeated retests without defects imply either administrative oversight or a vehicle that narrowly avoids critical failings. The most recent pass on 11 December 2025 at 104,014 miles indicates no immediate red flags were detected, but the history warrants scrutiny beyond the MOT’s scope. Mileage progression reveals an average of approximately 8,668 miles per year, which aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age. However, the gaps between tests—particularly the 11-month interval between the 2024 and 2025 failures—are unusually long for a car approaching 100,000 miles. The sudden jump from 91,505 miles in December 2024 to 92,280 miles in January 2025 (a 775-mile increase in under a month) suggests either a data entry error or a period of limited use. The subsequent steady accumulation to 104,014 miles by December 2025 implies regular driving, but the irregularities in the earlier record hint at possible neglect or inconsistent maintenance tracking. Given the repeated MOT failures without defects, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension components—particularly the rear bushes and coil springs—given their propensity for wear at this mileage. The brakes, while not explicitly failed, warrant close examination for uneven pad thickness, binding calipers, or excessive disc wear, especially if the vehicle exhibits pulling or reduced stopping performance. Structural integrity should also be assessed, particularly the wheel arches, sills, and subframe, for signs of corrosion or fatigue cracks, as these are common failure points in older Ford models. The absence of recorded defects does not preclude hidden issues; a thorough check of the exhaust system for leaks or excessive rust, as well as the electrical connections for intermittent faults, is advisable. The history suggests basic upkeep may have been inconsistent, so attention to fluid levels, filter condition, and general mechanical condition is essential.