2016 Ford B-MAX 1.5L Diesel · CP16 PLJ

A consistent record of MOT passes from 2020 through to the 2026-05-09 test supports the Ford B-Max's ongoing roadworthiness, with no advisories recorded on four of the last five tests. The most recent pass on 9 May 2026 was achieved without any defects noted, continuing a clean trend established since 2023. The single advisory on file relates to slight play in the nearside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint, flagged in November 2022, and one failure occurred in August 2021 due to an inoperative rear registration plate lamp, with a concurrent advisory for thin nearside front inner brake pads. Overall, the mechanical picture presented by the test history is one of largely compliant roadworthiness rather than a pattern of escalating or chronic defects. At 99,953 miles over roughly a decade of use, the vehicle has averaged around 10,000 miles per year, which sits comfortably within the typical range for a car of its age. The annual mileage appears broadly steady, with annual tests recorded in most years rather than long gaps that would suggest extended periods off the road, and there are no sudden jumps in the recorded odometer reading that might raise questions about accuracy. At this accumulation rate, consumable items such as brake pads and discs, tyres, and suspension bushes will have been worked through several cycles, and drivetrain components will have accrued moderate wear, but nothing in the recorded figures points to unusually high stress or neglect through standing idle. Given the advisory for slight play in the nearside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint recorded in 2022, this is the area to focus on during inspection. On a test drive, listen for clonking or rattling noises from the front end over uneven surfaces, particularly speed bumps and potholes, as worn anti-roll bar linkages typically transmit impacts as metallic knocks. Body roll through corners may feel looser than expected, and the front end can feel less precise during quick directional changes. If the original joint has not been replaced, the play is likely to have worsened by now, so a physical check by rocking the joint with the wheel removed or by hand at a garage would be worthwhile. The August 2021 advisory for thin nearside front inner brake pads should also prompt a careful check of braking performance. On test, listen for any grinding or squealing from the front wheels, particularly under moderate or firm pedal pressure, and feel for any judder or vibration through the steering wheel or brake pedal, which can indicate worn or warped brake discs alongside pad wear. The pedal should feel firm and progressive rather than spongy, and the car should pull up in a straight line without any tugging to either side. Beyond these flagged items, a general inspection of the rear registration plate lamp area to confirm both bulbs are functional, along with a check of all exterior lights, would simply confirm that the 2021 failure item has not reappeared.