2012 Ford S-MAX 1.6L Diesel · WR62 AAE

The 1.6 TDCi diesel in the S-Max typically returns around 54-58 mpg on a combined cycle, depending on driving style, though real-world figures for high-mileage examples like this one often fall closer to 45-50 mpg. As a pre-April 2017 diesel, this vehicle sits in tax band G (later re-banded to roughly £180-£200 annually under the current system) and parts costs are reasonable thanks to Ford's strong dealer and aftermarket support. Insurance is typically group 18-22 depending on trim, so mid-range premiums apply. Annual maintenance on a diesel S-Max at this mileage tends to include timing belt replacement (water pump and auxiliary items usually done at the same time), brake fluid, coolant and air filter changes. Budget roughly £400-£600 for routine annual maintenance, plus additional allowance for the wear items flagged in the MOT.

Begin by lifting the vehicle and inspecting the rear coil springs closely — the nearside one was flagged as corroded in April 2026, and corrosion on a spring typically spreads to the offside quickly. Check all five rear seat belt buckles for cracks, broken latch mechanisms or housing damage; the MOT recorded damage to the centre, offside rear and nearside rear buckles in both the 2025 and 2026 tests, so replacement may be due. With the engine running, watch the dashboard for any airbag or SRS warning and scan the ECU for stored fault codes — the SRS warning in April 2026 should have been fully rectified and the system cleared. Inspect all four tyres for age (DOT date code on the sidewall), uneven wear patterns, and ensure tread depth comfortably exceeds the legal 1.6mm minimum. Finally, examine the front and rear brake discs for lip, scoring and corrosion, as pitted rear discs have appeared in every MOT since 2024.