2010 Ford C-MAX 1.6L Petrol · ST10 AAN

The 2010 Ford C-MAX presents a largely stable and well-maintained MOT history based on the most recent DVSA records, with the vehicle achieving a Pass at the test conducted on 4 June 2025. It is worth noting, however, that a failure was also recorded on the same date in June 2025, immediately preceding the pass. This pattern is not unusual and typically indicates that a defect was identified during initial inspection, rectified on the same day or shortly thereafter, and the vehicle subsequently re-tested and passed. Importantly, the DVSA record shows no advisories or defect entries against either the failure or the subsequent pass, which suggests the issue was either minor or quickly corrected. The three prior annual tests in 2022, 2023, and 2024 all returned clean passes with no recorded defects, indicating a consistent maintenance trend without recurring advisories or mechanical deterioration. Overall, the MOT profile reflects a vehicle that has been kept in sound roadworthy condition over the recent testing cycle. The recorded mileage of 97,606 miles across 16 years equates to an annual average of approximately 6,100 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and segment. There are no glaring inconsistencies or sudden spikes in usage that would suggest an odometer discrepancy or unusual driving pattern. For a car that has covered this mileage, the engine, transmission, and drivetrain components will have experienced normal wear, but the annual figure is not excessive enough to raise immediate concerns about premature component fatigue. The steady accumulation of miles also suggests the vehicle has been used regularly rather than left standing for prolonged periods, which is generally beneficial for preventing issues such as brake seizure, exhaust corrosion, and deterioration of rubber components. Buyers should nonetheless verify that the odometer reading is supported by a consistent service history, as gaps in maintenance documentation can be more telling than mileage alone. Given the clean MOT record and the absence of any recorded advisories, the inspection focus should shift to age and calendar-related degradation, as a 16-year-old vehicle will inevitably face wear that does not always manifest during annual testing. The tyres should be examined closely for sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber compounds degrade with age regardless of tread depth, and any tyres over five years old should be considered for replacement. The brake discs, particularly those fitted to a vehicle that may have seen periods of light use or short journeys, are susceptible to surface corrosion and binding calipers, so the wheels should be spun to check for smooth rotation and the caliper slides should be inspected for free movement. The 12V battery is another priority, as units of this age commonly fail without warning; a load test or date code inspection is advisable. Fluid condition is equally important, and the buyer should confirm that the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and automatic transmission fluid (if applicable) have been serviced in line with time-based intervals rather than purely mileage-based schedules, as brake fluid in particular is hygroscopic and degrades every two to three years. On a test drive, particular attention should be paid to the suspension, as worn coil springs, anti-roll bar bushes, and wishbone bushes are common failure points on a C-MAX of this age and mileage. Listen for clonks or knocks over speed humps and uneven surfaces, and observe whether the vehicle remains level under braking or cornering, which can indicate weakened springs or worn dampers. The steering should be checked for vagueness or knocking, particularly as the rack mounting bushes and track rod ends are known wear items. The clutch operation, if manual, should be assessed for slipping under load or any juddering, and an automatic gearbox should be evaluated for smooth changes and absence of flare or harsh engagement. Finally, a thorough under-bonnet inspection for oil or coolant leaks, verification of recent cambelt and water pump replacement history (which is critical on age rather than mileage alone for this engine family), and a check for any corrosion around the rear wheel arches and underside structure will round out a sensible pre-purchase assessment.