2012 Ford C-MAX 1.6L Diesel · X11 PAE

The most recent MOT on 11 August 2025 recorded a full pass with no recorded defects, and this mirrors the three preceding annual tests in 2024, 2023 and 2022, each of which also passed without comment. The uninterrupted succession of clean results suggests a stable maintenance regime and no emerging systematic faults; the vehicle has evidently been kept in a condition that satisfies the DVSA’s safety and emissions criteria year on year. At 65,837 miles on the odometer for a model first registered in 2012 the average annual mileage works out at roughly 4,700 miles per year, well below the UK average of around 8,000–10,000 miles. Such low utilisation often points to periods of light duty or extended storage rather than heavy, high‑stress use. While reduced wear on consumables such as brake pads, clutch and tyres is a benefit, prolonged inactivity can accelerate age‑related deterioration of rubber components, corrosion of metal parts and the gradual loss of battery capacity. Given the clean MOT history and modest mileage, the buyer should focus on age‑related checks. Inspect all four tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot or uneven tread wear that can develop even on low‑kilometre tyres left stationary for long periods; verify that the tread depth exceeds 1.6 mm and that the tyre age (DOT code) is not beyond six years. Examine the 12‑volt battery for signs of sulphation or reduced cranking power, and consider a load test, as batteries over ten years old often lose capacity regardless of use. Look under the vehicle for any rust on the chassis, suspension mounting points and exhaust system, especially in the wheel arches and under the rear cross‑member, as moisture can settle during long stops. Check the brake system for any surface corrosion on the discs and for smooth, even pad wear; any pulsation or shudder when applying the brakes may indicate glazing or uneven disc wear. Verify that the calipers move freely and that there is no fluid leakage from the master cylinder or wheel cylinders. Inspect the suspension bushings, ball joints and shock absorbers for cracks, loss of compliance or leaking fluid, as these rubber parts deteriorate with time even when not heavily used. Finally, confirm that the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed within the recommended calendar intervals – typically every 12 months for brake fluid and every 24 months for coolant – and look for any signs of leaks, strange odours or abnormal noises during a short test drive, which would reveal hidden wear that the MOT record cannot capture.