2014 FORD S-MAX2.2L DIESEL

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, though the maintenance history reveals a pattern of reactive rather than proactive upkeep. The most recent test in February 2026 at 129,389 miles resulted in a pass with only minor windscreen damage noted. This represents an improvement from the February 2024 failure where the vehicle presented multiple safety-critical defects. While the current status is stable, the history of recurring issues suggests that components are often only addressed once they reach a failure threshold. At 129,389 miles over twelve years, the S-Max averages approximately 10,800 miles per year, which aligns with typical usage for an MPV of this age. The mileage accumulation is consistent, with roughly 5,000 miles driven between the March 2024 and February 2025 tests, and another 5,000 miles recorded in the final year. This steady usage suggests the vehicle has not suffered from long periods of stagnation, which is generally beneficial for seals and rubber components, despite the higher mileage. A buyer must pay close attention to the recurring front suspension and braking issues. The record shows the nearside front shock absorber has been misting oil since at least 2023, and the front brake discs have fluctuated across multiple tests. These fluctuations often indicate thin discs or warped rotors caused by heat cycling, likely necessitating replacement of the front components soon. Furthermore, the 2024 failure for trailing arm bushes and a missing rear wheel fixing indicates that the rear suspension requires a thorough physical inspection to ensure the previous repairs were comprehensive and have not returned to excessive wear. The history of tyres being worn to the legal limit or on the edges in 2023 and 2024 points toward potential alignment issues or neglect of basic consumable maintenance. An inspector should verify the current tyre set for uneven wear and check the steering geometry for play. Given the age and mileage of the vehicle, an underbody inspection is also essential to evaluate structural integrity and corrosion, as the MOT records focus only on mechanical and safety points.