2011 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · DE04 TLE

Significant structural corrosion and a pattern of electronic system failures define the recent history of this vehicle. While it achieved a pass on 16 June 2026, this followed a failure involving excessive corrosion in the prescribed areas of the rear suspension mountings on both the nearside and offside inner arches, which had significantly reduced structural strength. This trend of deterioration is further evidenced by a 2025 failure involving the SRS, ABS, and ESC warning lamps, as well as a major exhaust leak, indicating a shift toward more complex mechanical and electronic defects in the last two years. The recorded mileage of 151,446 miles is consistent with the vehicle's age, averaging approximately 10,096 miles per year. This level of usage typically results in accelerated wear of drivetrain components and suspension linkages. The consistency of the annual testing cycle suggests the vehicle has remained in active use, but the high cumulative mileage correlates with the recent emergence of structural rust and the failure of suspension components such as the nearside front coil spring. Particular attention must be paid to the integrity of the rear inner arches and suspension mountings to ensure the previous corrosion repairs were carried out to a professional standard. During a test drive, listen for clicking or popping sounds during tight, low-speed manoeuvres, which would indicate that the deteriorated nearside and offside constant velocity boots have allowed grease to escape or contaminants to enter the joints. Any knocks or unevenness felt when traversing bumps may suggest lingering issues with the suspension geometry following the replacement of the fractured front coil spring. The braking system requires scrutiny due to recorded pitting and scoring of the offside front brake disc and previous reports of fluctuating service brake performance. A prospective buyer should feel for any pedal judder or steering wheel vibration during deceleration. Additionally, verify that the engine management light and other safety warning lamps are fully operational and not permanently extinguished to hide the previously recorded ABS, SRS, and ESC faults. Finally, check for any audible exhaust leaks or abnormal emissions, given the history of a major centre exhaust leak.