2011 Ford Grand C-MAX 2.0L Diesel · KJ52 ELL

The most recent DVSA examination on 29 June 2026 returned a PASS outcome, although the test exposed a combination of minor defects and advisories that warrant careful evaluation. Two minor items were recorded: a defective front windscreen wiper blade and a nearside windscreen chip not adversely affecting the driver's view, both of which are trivial in mechanical terms but indicate that basic visual and electrical housekeeping has lapsed slightly. More significant are the advisories for front tyres worn close to the legal limit on both edges and a corroded rear sub-frame and arms. The presence of structural corrosion advisories, even when not classed as seriously weakened, is a notable concern on a fifteen year old vehicle and reflects a general maintenance trend that is gradually worsening rather than stable. The 2025 test showed only advisory edge wear on both front tyres, whereas the 2024 test revealed corroded rear coil springs and a corroded rear anti-roll bar. Taken together, the MOT history demonstrates a clear progressive pattern of underbody corrosion developing across the rear suspension and chassis components, alongside recurring tyre wear issues that have not been addressed between tests. Recorded mileage stands at 149,912 miles over a fifteen year life, equating to an annual average of roughly 9,994 miles, which is broadly typical for a family vehicle of this age and segment. The mileage progression between recorded tests appears consistent, suggesting the vehicle has been in regular use rather than left standing for extended periods, which is generally positive from the perspective of avoiding long-term deterioration of seals, brake components and the 12 volt battery. That said, at this accumulated mileage the engine, transmission, clutch and turbocharger (if fitted) have all endured significant wear, and the timing belt or chain, water pump, coolant and auxiliary drive belts will have been due for replacement at least once during the vehicle's life. Any prospective buyer should confirm that major service intervals have been observed, particularly the cambelt change and the renewal of automatic transmission fluid or manual gearbox oil where applicable. From a chassis and suspension standpoint, the recurring advisories on rear coil springs, the rear anti-roll bar, rear suspension arm pins and bushes, and now the rear sub-frame all point to an underbody that is steadily succumbing to corrosion and component fatigue. On a test drive, listen for clonks or knocks from the rear over speed humps and uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn bushes, perished spring seats or play in the anti-roll bar link joints. The 2022 advisory on rear brake disc pitting and scoring, combined with binding caliper risk from age, suggests the discs may now be at or close to their minimum thickness and could benefit from replacement along with a caliper inspection for seized slide pins. Edge wear on the front tyres, flagged in both 2025 and 2026, suggests either incorrect camber, worn front suspension bushes, or repeated hard cornering, and any new tyres should be monitored for uneven shoulder wear across the next few thousand miles to determine whether a wheel alignment or further suspension investigation is required. Beyond the documented advisories, a vehicle of this age and mileage demands the usual calendar based checks that do not always appear on an MOT. Inspect the tyre sidewalls carefully for cracking and perishing even where tread depth remains adequate, as fifteen year old rubber can fail suddenly regardless of remaining tread. Examine the coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid and engine oil for date coding and condition, as these should be renewed on time rather than mileage alone. Check the 12 volt battery state of health, since repeated short journeys and age will degrade it, and verify the operation of all electrical consumers including the registration plate lamps and wiper system that have previously attracted minor defects. Finally, examine the rear sub-frame mounting areas closely for any bubbling paint or lifting seam sealant that may indicate corrosion progressing beyond the current advisory level, and consider a structural inspection or underseal treatment to arrest further deterioration.