2014 Ford C-MAX 1.0L Petrol · AF64 LVH

This 2014 Ford C-Max, with a current mileage of 45,203, has demonstrated a clear worsening trend in roadworthiness over the past two years, despite passing its most recent MOT on 2026-02-25. The vehicle failed twice in the same test cycle due to critical tyre-related issues, including near-legal tread limits and edge wear on both front tyres, alongside a persistent malfunction in the tyre pressure monitoring system. The 2024 test at 38,259 miles already highlighted rear tyre degradation—cracking and near-legal tread—indicating a pattern of neglect rather than isolated failure. The 2025 test at 41,716 miles showed improvement in tyre conditions but reintroduced the TPMS fault, suggesting either intermittent repairs or a recurring electrical issue. The most recent failure underscores that while the vehicle may still pass MOTs, it is operating with marginal tyres and unreliable safety systems, which are not sustainable long-term. The recorded mileage suggests unusually light usage for a vehicle of this age, averaging just 3,767 miles annually over the past decade. This could imply prolonged periods of inactivity, which often accelerates degradation of tyres, suspension components, and fluid-based systems. The gap between tests—consistently spaced at one year—does not reveal rapid mileage accumulation, but the low annual average raises questions about whether the vehicle has been stored improperly or driven under controlled conditions. Such low mileage can mask deeper issues, as components may not have been subjected to the wear that would otherwise reveal themselves sooner. A prospective buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the tyres, particularly the front pair, which have repeatedly approached legal limits and exhibited edge wear—a sign of misalignment or aggressive cornering. The rear tyres from 2024 showed cracking, which could indicate exposure to UV damage or low-quality rubber. The tyre pressure monitoring system has failed twice, suggesting either a faulty sensor, wiring issue, or software glitch; this should be tested in person. Given the age of the vehicle, suspension bushes and coil springs should be visually inspected for wear, as should the brake calipers and discs for binding or uneven wear patterns. Corrosion at wheel arches, sills, and the subframe is also worth examining, as rust can compromise structural integrity without immediate visual signs. The absence of major advisories in recent tests does not guarantee these areas are sound, but they warrant close scrutiny.