2012 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · CA12 BVT

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance trend indicates a reactive rather than proactive approach to repairs. While it passed the latest test in November 2025 at 127,173 miles, it carried multiple advisories that suggest deferred attention to consumables. The tester flagged all four tyres as reaching the legal limit with uneven wear, alongside a misting offside front shock absorber and a defective central exhaust mounting. This represents a shift from the clean record seen in earlier tests to a developing mechanical decline. The recorded mileage of 127,173 miles over 14 years averages to approximately 9,000 miles per annum, which is consistent with typical usage for a large MPV. The data shows a significant period of high activity in 2024, where the vehicle covered nearly 4,500 miles between March and November. This interval saw two MOT failures, indicating that rapid mileage accelerated wear on components. Since the last test in late 2025, the vehicle has covered several additional miles, placing further stress on the already aging suspension and worn-out tyres. A buyer must inspect the rear suspension geometry closely, as the trailing arm bushes have a documented history of failure, moving from worn in March 2024 to fully separated by November 2024. The front drive shafts also require physical verification; the split CV boots noted in late 2024 often lead to premature joint failure if not replaced immediately. The misting offside front shock absorber has evolved from a serious leak in early 2024, suggesting the component is nearing the end of its functional life. The uneven tyre wear across all corners also indicates a potential alignment issue that needs a professional assessment to prevent premature degradation of new rubber.