2014 Ford S-MAX Zetec Tdci 140 2.0L Diesel · BU14 HCP

The vehicle currently holds a roadworthy status following a pass on October 22, 2025 at 181,525 miles. However, the maintenance trend shows a recent improvement only after a period of instability. The car failed three consecutive tests within 2025 alone, in January, April, and early October, before finally passing. While the most recent inspection recorded no defects, the cluster of failures suggests a reactive maintenance approach where the owner only addressed mechanical issues when necessitated by the legal test requirement rather than performing proactive preventative maintenance. At 12 years old with 181,525 recorded miles, this vehicle averages over 15,000 miles per year, which sits significantly above the national average for a diesel MP. The data reveals a sharp surge in usage between the October 2023 test at 149,408 miles and the October 2025 test at 180,764 miles, covering over 31,000 miles in just two years. This high rate of accumulation places immense strain on the drivetrain, turbocharger, and suspension components. The two-year gap between the 2023 and 2025 records indicates a period of heavy utilization that likely triggered the string of failures seen throughout 2025. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the suspension geometry and rubber components, as the high mileage accelerates wear on bushes, coil springs, and ball joints. Given the three failures in late 2025, the braking system should be checked specifically for binding calipers or uneven disc wear, which are common points of failure on vehicles of this age. The structural integrity of the chassis also requires scrutiny for corrosion on the sills and rear mounting points, as high-mileage vehicles are often subject to accelerated rust that can compromise the frame over time.