2012 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · LJ12 AEA
2012 Ford S-MAX (2.0L, diesel). First registered 13 Jul 2012. Recorded mileage 147,322 miles. MOT valid until 01 Jul 2027.
- Make & Model
- FORD S-MAX
- Year / Origin
- 2012 · Wimbledon (South London)
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 01 Jul 2027
- Road Tax
- —
- Recorded Mileage
- 147,322 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- Diesel · 2.0L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
LJ12 AEA Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 03/07/2026
- 147,322 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 4 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring exhaust & emissions items (9 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
LJ12 AEA MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2012 Ford S-Max (LJ12 AEA) between August 2024 and July 2026.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 03 July 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Exhaust & Emissions (9 issues), Lighting (8 issues), Suspension (4 issues), Tyres (2 issues), Brakes (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 14 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
LJ12 AEA Mileage History
- 08/08/2024128,241 mi
- 18/07/2025137,512 mi+9,271 mi
- 18/07/2025137,512 mi
- 03/07/2026147,322 mi+9,810 mi
- 03/07/2026147,322 mi
Average of roughly 10,041 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for Ford Ford S-MAX Mk1
Our database tracks 6 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
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Digital Service History
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FORD S-MAX Model Intelligence & Reliability
Verified MOT failure trends, buying advice, and technical directory specifications.
Owner-reported defects, recurring MOT failure points, and estimated repair costs.
Browse production generations, registration statistics, and trim variants.
Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 2012 model year cars.
- Powershift Gearbox FailureSerious
The 6DCT450 wet-clutch Powershift automatic requires fluid changes every 3 years/37,500 miles. If missed, the internal plastic damping springs shatter and destroy the mechatronic unit.
- Steering Rack FailureSerious
The power steering rack can leak fluid internally into the track rod end boots, eventually running the pump dry and ruining the rack.
- Dual Mass Flywheel (DMF) WearSerious
The S-Max heavy body puts extra strain on the DMF. Symptoms include rattling at idle especially cold, vibration through the pedals and difficulty engaging gears. Some owners report failure as early as 60,000 miles on cars used in stop-start traffic.
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