2012 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · DN61 RBY

Corrosion on the rear subframe and suspension arms, alongside recurring issues with rubber gaiters and dust covers, defines the mechanical profile of this vehicle. While the most recent test on 22 August 2026 resulted in a pass, the record shows a persistent pattern of deterioration in protective components and structural oxidation. Specifically, the nearside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust cover was flagged as severely deteriorated in both the 2025 and 2026 tests, indicating a component that has remained in a state of decay for at least two consecutive inspection cycles. The presence of advisory notices for rear subframe and suspension arm corrosion in 2025 suggests that while the structural integrity was not deemed critical at that time, the oxidation is a documented characteristic of the vehicle's underside. The vehicle has covered 167,004 miles over its approximately 14-year lifespan, which equates to an average annual accumulation of roughly 11,929 miles. This usage pattern is consistent with typical long-term road use for a vehicle of this age and class. Mechanically, this level of mileage suggests that components subject to frequent movement and friction, such as suspension bushes, drive shaft joints, and steering rack gaiters, are reaching the end of their expected service life. The history of failures regarding steering rack gaiters and drive shaft constant velocity boots is consistent with the wear and tear expected from this volume of mileage. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the underside of the vehicle, specifically focusing on the rear subframe and the trailing arm bushes. Although the 2025 advisory noted that the rear subframe and suspension arms were corroded but not seriously weakened, corrosion is a progressive condition. During a test drive, listen for any knocking, clunking, or rhythmic thudding sounds when traversing uneven surfaces or speed bumps, as these can indicate that the previously noted suspension arm corrosion or worn trailing arm bushes have progressed to cause excessive movement. Additionally, check for any pulling to one side or imprecise steering response, which could stem from the historical issues with the steering rack gaiter and drive shaft joints. The repeated deterioration of the nearside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust cover warrants a physical inspection to ensure the component has been replaced or is no longer at risk of imminent failure. On the test drive, pay attention to any sharp metallic knocks coming from the front end when turning the steering wheel at low speeds or when hitting minor road imperfections, as this would indicate a failure in the anti-roll bar linkage or its associated joints. Given the history of headlamp aim failures and various tyre advisories, a visual check of the lighting alignment and the remaining tread depth across all four tyres is also advisable to ensure current compliance with safety standards.