2016 Ford B-MAX 1.5L Diesel · CA16 AXF

A significant suspension issue surfaced in the 2024 test when the nearside front track‑rod end ball joint was recorded with excessive play, triggering a major failure that would have required replacement before the vehicle could be deemed roadworthy again. The subsequent MOTs in July 2025 and June 2026 both passed, indicating that the defect was rectified and the car has since demonstrated stable compliance, though the record continues to flag tyre tread wear and a thin‑pad advisory from earlier years. With 80,618 mi logged over a ten‑year lifespan, the average annual accumulation sits around 8,000 mi, which aligns with typical usage for a family MPV of this age. The MOT history shows a consistent yearly test with no prolonged gaps, suggesting the vehicle has been kept on the road rather than stored for extended periods. This mileage level points to moderate wear on consumables such as suspension bushings, brake components and tyres, but does not alone indicate premature drivetrain failure. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the front suspension and steering assembly. On a low‑speed test drive, feel for any clunk, knock or looseness when negotiating bumps or applying steering input, especially on the nearside front wheel, as residual play could hint at incomplete ball‑joint replacement or emerging wear in adjacent tie‑rod ends. The tyre advisories across multiple years mean that at least two tyres are approaching the legal minimum tread depth; inspect all four for uniform wear, sidewall condition and ensure they meet the 3 mm limit before committing to purchase. The 2021 advisory about thin front brake pads also warrants a visual check of pad thickness and a brake pedal feel test for any pulsation or increased stopping distances. Finally, verify that the recent MOT pass reflects a fully remedied suspension condition and that any corrosion around the suspension mounting points is absent, as rust can compromise structural integrity. Confirm that the brake discs are free from scoring and that the brake fluid level is adequate, given the prior pad‑wear note. A comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection covering these areas will clarify whether the vehicle’s mechanical state matches the MOT record and is suitable for continued road use.