2010 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · PG10 AAA

The vehicle presents a mixed maintenance profile, showing an improving trend in terms of passing tests but revealing a pattern of neglected consumable items. The most recent test on 1 September 2025 at 88,370 miles initially resulted in a failure due to both nearside and offside front inner tyres having exposed ply or cords. This indicates a significant safety risk that was rectified to achieve the subsequent pass. While the vehicle is currently roadworthy, the history suggests a reactive approach to maintenance rather than proactive servicing. The mileage pattern reflects low annual usage, averaging approximately 5,500 miles per year over its sixteen-year lifespan. Between the August 2024 test at 81,801 miles and the September 2025 test at 88,370 miles, the vehicle covered 6,569 miles. This consistent, low-intensity usage is typical for a vehicle that may spend significant time stationary. However, low mileage does not preclude mechanical degradation, particularly regarding rubber components and brake surfaces. The MOT history highlights recurring issues with tyres and braking components. In August 2024, the tester flagged both front tyres as being worn close to the legal limit and noted that both front brake discs were pitted or scored. The failure in September 2025 for exposed tyre cords suggests the previous owner allowed the tyres to reach a dangerous state of wear. A buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the remaining tyre tread depths and sidewall integrity, as well as the condition of the brake discs and pads to ensure they are not excessively corroded or unevenly worn. Electrical and fluid systems also require scrutiny. The August 2024 failure included a non-functional windscreen washer, an inoperative engine MIL, and faulty fog and reversing lamps. Although these were resolved for the pass, they point toward a lack of basic pre-MOT checks. I recommend checking the engine management system for any stored fault codes and verifying that all exterior lighting and washer systems operate correctly before committing to the purchase.