2010 Ford S-MAX 1.8L Diesel · AV10 RFE

A clear pattern of rear suspension and brake wear is emerging on this 2010 Ford S-MAX, with the most recent test on 23 December 2023 passing only after a stop lamp failure on the same day was rectified. The test history shows two failures in the recorded period, both related to specific component issues rather than systemic neglect, but the rear-end advisories are consistent and worsening. The 2023 pass carried advisories for both nearside and offside rear inner brake discs showing pitting and scoring, alongside corrosion noted on the rear suspension and an offside rear inner tyre worn close to the legal limit. Looking further back, a nearside rear trailing arm bush was flagged as worn in January 2020, and a 2021 failure noted an insecure rear exhaust mounting alongside a deteriorated offside front anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover. While no catastrophic structural issues have been recorded, the recurrence of rear axle advisories across multiple tests suggests an area that warrants close physical examination before purchase. Mileage of 128,962 miles over roughly sixteen years equates to around 8,060 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and class, indicating consistent rather than sporadic use. There are no extended gaps in the testing history, with annual MOTs recorded from 2020 through 2023, suggesting the vehicle has remained in regular operation. This level of consistent use means consumables such as brake discs, pads, tyres, and suspension components have been subjected to steady wear rather than the accelerated degradation often seen on low-mileage vehicles that suffer from standing-induced corrosion. The annual mileage rate is unlikely to raise mechanical concerns on its own, but it does mean the wear items identified in the advisories have had genuine working life behind them and should not be dismissed as superficial. For a prospective buyer, the immediate priority should be a thorough inspection of the rear suspension assembly, given the trailing arm bush wear flagged in 2020 and the general rear suspension corrosion noted in 2023. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the rear axle when traversing speed humps or potholes, particularly over undulating surfaces where worn bushes allow excessive play. Pay attention to any vagueness in the rear handling or a tendency for the back end to step out unexpectedly, as corroded components or perished bushes can compromise stability. The rear brake discs should be physically examined for lipping, and the calipers checked for smooth operation, as pitted and scored inner faces often indicate the discs are nearing the end of their service life and may require replacement along with fresh pads. Additional checks should focus on the front anti-roll bar linkage, where the deteriorated dust cover noted in 2021 could allow dirt ingress into the ball joint, leading to accelerated wear and potential knocking under load. Inspect the exhaust system mounting at the rear for security and integrity, as the 2021 failure for an insecure rear mounting suggests the hanger or rubber may have been replaced but warrants verification. On startup, observe for any smoke from the exhaust that could relate to the oil leak advisory from 2020, and check the underbonnet and sump area for fresh seepage. Finally, confirm the operation of all stop lamps and the windscreen washer system, as both have presented failures in recent tests, and ensure the tyres, particularly the rear inner edges, show even wear rather than the camber-related edge wear previously flagged.