2013 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · AF63 GLZ

The most recent MOT recorded on 30 April 2026 was a pass with no defects noted, following a failure two days earlier that highlighted a split CV‑boot, tyre wear and a deteriorated anti‑roll‑bar dust cover. Over the past three years the vehicle has moved from a clean record in 2023 to a series of minor and advisory items in 2024 and 2025, culminating in the major CV‑boot failure in early 2024 and the tyre‑wear warnings that persisted into 2026. Although the latest pass shows that the immediate safety‑critical faults have been remedied, the recurrence of tyre‑wear advisories and the repeated mention of deteriorating dust covers suggest a maintenance trend that is stabilising but still requires close monitoring. At 185 032 mi the S‑Max averages roughly 14 200 mi per annum, well above the typical UK figure of 10 000–12 000 mi. This level of utilisation accelerates wear on consumables such as tyres, brake discs and pads, as well as on suspension components and the drivetrain. High mileage also increases the likelihood of internal corrosion in the rear axle and engine oil degradation, particularly if service intervals have not been rigorously adhered to. Prospective owners should therefore expect that many wear items will be approaching the end of their service life and that any remaining mileage warranty will be limited. When inspecting the vehicle, give particular attention to the front and rear tyres – the near‑side rear tyre was recorded as dangerously under‑tread in the April 2026 failure, and both front tyres were flagged as close to the legal limit a few months earlier. Look for uneven wear patterns, sidewall cracking and any bulges that could indicate structural damage; a test‑drive should reveal vibrations or a shudder when the car is under load, especially through corners, which would point to worn tyres or a failing CV joint. The CV‑boot on the near‑side front outer drive shaft was previously split, so verify that the joint is free of grease leakage and that there is no clicking noise on acceleration or deceleration. The anti‑roll‑bar ball‑joint dust covers have been noted as severely deteriorated on several occasions – inspect the bushings for excessive play, corrosion or cracked rubber, and listen for clunking from the front suspension when negotiating bumps. Brake discs and pads have already shown wear; ensure the discs are not scored and that the pads have sufficient thickness, as thin pads can cause brake fade and increased rotor wear. Beyond the specific MOT items, a vehicle of this age and mileage should be examined for age‑related degradation. Check the 12 V battery terminals for corrosion and test the cranking voltage, as prolonged standing can lead to sulfation. Verify that the coolant, brake and power‑steering fluids have been replaced within the recommended intervals – old fluid can become acidic and damage seals. Inspect the under‑carriage for rust, especially around the rear subframe and suspension mounting points, and examine the suspension bushes and coil springs for cracking or excessive play. Finally, confirm that the service book contains stamps for regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable), and that any major component replacements such as the timing belt have been recorded, as these are critical to long‑term reliability.