2012 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · AL08 AFD

The current roadworthiness of this Ford S-Max appears unstable, showing a pattern of reactive rather than preventative maintenance. While the vehicle passed its most recent test on 23 January 2026 at 118,600 miles, the record shows a failure just two days prior. The January 2026 failure involved a serious risk of detachment from a nearside front track rod end and a damaged front lower engine mounting bracket. The presence of an oil leak, which has been noted in the 2023, 2026, and January 2026 tests, suggests a persistent issue that has not been fully resolved despite multiple inspections. The vehicle has covered 118,600 miles over approximately 14 years, averaging roughly 8,500 miles annually. This represents typical usage for a vehicle of this age. The mileage accumulation appears consistent, with no significant gaps or periods of long-term inactivity evident in the data. The progression from 90,896 miles in January 2023 to 118,600 miles in January 2026 shows a steady annual increase of approximately 9,200 miles, confirming a regular driving pattern. A prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the front-end suspension and engine mounting components. The recurring issues with track rod ends and ball joints, seen in 2018, 2020, and 2026, indicate a vulnerability in the steering geometry that requires close examination. The engine mounting bracket failure in January 2026 is a significant mechanical finding that warrants verification of a professional repair. Furthermore, the repeated mentions of oil leaks since 2023 suggest the buyer should check for significant weeping around the sump, seals, or timing cover to determine if the leak is truly non-excessive. Braking components and emissions also require scrutiny. The vehicle has a history of thin brake pads and low tread tyres, specifically noted in 2018, 2019, 2022, and 2025. While these are consumable items, the frequency of failures suggests the previous owners often waited for components to reach legal limits before replacing them. The 2025 failure regarding excessive exhaust emissions should be investigated to ensure the diesel engine or catalytic converter is performing within manufacturer specifications.