2021 Ford S-MAX ST-Line HEV CVT 2.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · VN71 BKF

The most recent MOT test on 2025-11-12—just seven months ago—shows the vehicle passed without any recorded defects, though the record also includes an unusual duplicate entry for the same date, one marked as failed. This suggests either a clerical error or an administrative oversight rather than a mechanical issue. The preceding test in November 2024 also passed cleanly, indicating no recurring faults or escalating problems in the tester’s observations. However, the lack of any advisories or defects in either test means there is no evidence of deferred maintenance or hidden wear patterns. The vehicle’s roadworthiness status remains stable, with no clear trend of deterioration or improvement. The recorded mileage of 44,128 miles over approximately five years—roughly 8,826 miles annually—falls within the expected range for a vehicle of this age. There are no significant gaps in the MOT history to suggest prolonged neglect, nor is there evidence of rapid mileage accumulation that might indicate excessive use. The consistency of the mileage suggests the vehicle has been driven at a steady rate, which typically correlates with more predictable wear on components like tyres, brakes, and suspension. Still, the absence of intermediate MOT tests—such as those from 2023 or 2022—means there is no historical data to confirm whether earlier maintenance was thorough or if any potential issues were addressed before they became critical. Given the sparse MOT history, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of high-wear areas that are not directly tested under MOT regulations. The hybrid drivetrain (HEV) and CVT transmission warrant particular attention, as these systems can develop hidden faults over time, such as degraded hybrid battery health or CVT fluid degradation, neither of which are routinely checked in an MOT. The suspension—especially the rear suspension given the vehicle’s weight and load-bearing requirements—should be examined for worn bushes, coil springs, or binding calipers, as these issues often develop gradually and may not have manifested by the time of the most recent test. Additionally, the brake system, including rear brake discs and calipers, should be inspected for uneven wear or corrosion, as hybrid vehicles can experience unique thermal and load stresses. Finally, the underbody and wheel arches should be scrutinised for corrosion, particularly around the rear axle and sills, where rust can compromise structural integrity over time.