2007 Ford S-MAX 2.5L Petrol · AV07 FEK

The most recent official DVSA test on 27 January 2022 recorded a PASS with no advisories or defects noted, which is a positive indicator that, at the time of inspection, the Ford S-Max met the statutory roadworthiness requirements. However, it must be stressed that there is no subsequent MOT history available for the intervening four years up to the current date of September 2026, which means the vehicle has effectively been untested for a substantial period. The absence of recurring advisories or failure points in the documented history does suggest a stable maintenance trend, but the lengthy gap since the last recorded test means any deterioration in components such as braking, suspension, or exhaust integrity would not be captured. A prospective buyer should treat this clean record as a useful but limited data point and must prioritise a fresh, independent pre-purchase inspection. Recorded mileage stands at 200,925 miles across approximately nineteen years of service, equating to an average annual accumulation of around 10,575 miles, which is broadly typical for a large family MPV of this era. This level of usage points to a vehicle that has been used regularly rather than left standing for prolonged periods, which is generally favourable for mechanical longevity, particularly for the clutch, drivetrain, and braking components. Nevertheless, at this cumulative mileage, significant wear items are likely to be approaching or have already exceeded their service life, including timing belt components, dual-mass flywheel on manual variants, suspension bushes, coil springs, and exhaust system mountings. The MOT record provided covers only a single test nearly five years ago, so the mileage recorded at that point and any subsequent accumulation cannot be verified from the DVSA data alone, and the physical odometer reading should be cross-checked against service history documentation. Given the vehicle's age and the extended period since its last official test, particular attention should be paid to age-related degradation irrespective of mileage. Tyres should be closely inspected for sidewall perishing and cracking, which is common on vehicles of this vintage and can lead to sudden failure even where tread depth appears acceptable. The 12-volt battery is highly likely to be due for replacement, and its state of health should be tested under load prior to purchase. Brake discs and calipers may exhibit corrosion and binding from intermittent use, especially on a vehicle of this size and weight, and a thorough check for seized caliper slides or uneven pad wear is essential. All fluid systems, including engine coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and automatic transmission fluid if applicable, should be evaluated for calendar-based degradation and replaced in line with manufacturer schedules, as age rather than mileage often dictates their service intervals on older vehicles. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for suspension knocks or clonks over uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn bushes, drop links, or anti-roll bar components, and pay close attention to any knocking from the front end that could suggest worn track rod ends or bottom arm joints. Brake pedal feel should be firm and progressive without excessive travel or sponginess, and any vibration through the steering wheel under braking would suggest warped front discs. The steering should be checked for play or vagueness, particularly around the straight-ahead position, and the engine should be observed for any irregular idle, misfires, or excessive exhaust smoke on startup, which could indicate failing sensors, ignition components, or turbo wear if so equipped. Given the very high mileage, an inspection of the underside for fluid leaks, corrosion to structural elements, and condition of the exhaust system is strongly recommended, along with verification of full service history to confirm that major items such as the timing belt, water pump, and clutch have been addressed at appropriate intervals.