2014 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · AP64 AEA

The vehicle's roadworthiness shows a worsening trend regarding mechanical upkeep and component fatigue. While the most recent test on 26 May 2026 at 142,783 miles resulted in a pass, the vehicle required a failure on 22 May 2026 to address significant issues including an offside front wheel bearing with excessive play, split CV boots on both front drive shafts, and an insecure exhaust system. The presence of recurring advisories for worn suspension arm bushes and tyres nearing the legal limit suggests that while major failures are being rectified, the vehicle is entering a phase of frequent, small-scale maintenance requirements. The mileage accumulation is consistent with the vehicle's age, averaging approximately 11,900 miles per year. The record shows steady usage, with the mileage increasing from 80,667 in February 2020 to 142,783 in May 2026. There are no significant periods of long-term inactivity, which typically helps prevent seized components, yet the consistent annual mileage has led to a predictable progression of wear on consumables and drivetrain components. A prospective buyer must prioritize a physical inspection of the suspension and drivetrain. The MOT history shows a persistent pattern of suspension bush wear, with faults flagged in May 2025 and again in May 2026. The recent failure of both front CV boots and the offside front wheel bearing indicates that the front axle area has undergone significant stress. Furthermore, the 24 June 2024 failure involving a serious fluid leak from the nearside rear shock absorber and high exhaust emissions suggests that the vehicle's damping and emissions systems have previously struggled with reliability. The recurring issues with tyres and lighting also indicate a reactive rather than proactive maintenance approach. The tester flagged worn tyres and inoperative registration lamps in both the May 2026 and June 2024 tests. Given the history of exhaust insecurity and emissions failures, a thorough check of the exhaust mounting points, heat shields, and the integrity of the catalytic converter is necessary to ensure no underlying structural or mechanical degradation remains.