2013 Ford B-MAX 1.6L Petrol · NV13 AAX

The most recent MOT, carried out on 5 June 2026, was passed, with only two advisory items recorded – a slightly deteriorated front registration plate and minor front‑seat‑belt webbing wear. Compared with the previous year, the overall defect picture shows an improvement; the 2025 test suite contained several safety‑related failures (stop‑lamp failures, position‑lamp fault and a headlamp incompatibility) alongside recurring advisories for the seat‑belt, a rear wheel bearing and a front oil leak. Those serious failures have been cleared, leaving only low‑severity advisories, which suggests the current owner has addressed the most critical faults and that the vehicle’s maintenance trajectory is now stabilising rather than deteriorating. At 128,043 mi the B‑MAX has logged roughly 9,800 mi per annum over its 13‑year life, a usage rate that sits squarely within the normal band for a family MPV of this age. There are no obvious periods of prolonged inactivity evident from the mileage record, so the wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension components is likely to be consistent with the mileage rather than being accelerated by high‑speed or heavy‑load duty. The moderate annual mileage also means that major drivetrain parts such as the gearbox and drive shafts are unlikely to have suffered premature fatigue, but the cumulative distance does warrant a thorough check of age‑related items. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the recurring seat‑belt webbing on the off‑side front seat; frayed fabric can compromise restraint performance and should be replaced promptly if any further wear is evident. The near‑side rear wheel bearing, flagged as slightly noisy, may manifest as a low‑frequency hum that changes with vehicle speed or load – a test drive should include a quiet, steady cruise and a gentle cornering manoeuvre to listen for any growling or grinding. The front oil leak noted in both 2025 entries, although not described as excessive, should be inspected for source – whether from the engine valve cover, oil filter housing or the transmission oil seal – and the oil level and condition verified. Any persistent leakage could lead to reduced lubrication and eventual bearing or gearbox wear, so a mechanic’s visual inspection and a pressure test of the oil circuit are advisable. Finally, the lamp failures recorded in 2025 (stop lamps, position lamp and headlamp incompatibility) should be confirmed as resolved; verify that all exterior lights illuminate correctly, that the stop‑lamp lenses are clear, and that the headlamp units are of the correct specification to avoid future MOT rejections. Beyond the specific MOT items, the vehicle’s age calls for a series of calendar‑based checks. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or uneven wear that could indicate misalignment or suspension degradation; tyres older than six years should be replaced regardless of tread depth. Inspect the 12‑volt battery terminals for corrosion and assess the battery’s cranking performance, as prolonged standing can diminish capacity. The brake discs and pads should be measured for thickness and inspected for surface rust or scoring, especially if the car has spent long periods idle, and the calipers should be checked for any signs of sticking. Finally, verify that the service history includes regular oil and coolant changes, that the suspension bushes and coil springs show no excessive play or leaking, and that the exhaust system is free of cracks or excessive corrosion, all of which are essential to ensure a safe and reliable purchase.