2009 Ford S-MAX 2.2L Diesel · DF59 WBL

The vehicle is currently roadworthy following a pass in February 2026, but the maintenance history reveals a trend of reactive rather than proactive care. While the car passed its most recent test at 138,605 miles, it failed just three miles prior due to an inoperative engine management light, a failing front anti-roll bar linkage, and a borderline nearside tyre. The presence of an engine management light failure suggests that electronic or sensor issues are being the owner only addresses when forced by an MOT failure, rather than being monitored during routine servicing. At 138,605 miles, this seventeen-year-old S-Max averaged approximately 8,153 miles per year, which aligns with typical UK usage for a vehicle of this age. The records show consistent annual mileage, with roughly 5,000 miles covered between the February 2025 and 2026 tests. This steady usage suggests the car does not sit for long periods, which can sometimes lead to seal degradation, though the high mileage places significant demand on rubber-based suspension components and mechanical joints across the chassis. A physical inspection must focus heavily on the structural integrity and suspension assembly. The vehicle has been flagged for structural corrosion in both 2023 and 2024, and while the tester noted rigidity was not yet reduced, the persistent mention of rust requires a close look for deep scale corrosion on the sills and mounting points. The nearside front anti-roll bar linkage failure in early 2026 indicates that suspension components are reaching the end of their lifespan. A buyer should check all ball joints and bushes for play or perished rubber. The braking system also warrants attention following the February 2025 advisory regarding thin rear inner brake pads. The February 2026 failure highlighted a tyre worn on the edge, which often indicates an alignment issue or a binding caliper. The oil leak noted in 2025 should also be monitored to ensure it has not worsened into a significant leak that could affect drivetrain performance. Given the engine management light failure, the buyer should verify the fault code was properly cleared and that there are no underlying sensor issues that will reappear.