2019 Ford C-MAX 1.5L Petrol · DP19 OYN

A pattern of brake-related advisories and recurring wiper failures defines the mechanical narrative of this C-MAX across seven recorded MOT tests spanning 2023 to 2026. The most recent event on 31 January 2026 produced both a pass and a failure recorded on the same day, with the failure attributed to the nearside windscreen wiper failing to clear the screen effectively, identical in nature to a similar major defect flagged on the offside front wiper in January 2023. More notably, that 2023 test also recorded a dangerous failure for nearside rear brake pad thickness below 1.5 mm and a major failure for an inoperative nearside rear stop lamp, marking the most serious mechanical event in the history. The intervening tests in 2024 and 2025 passed with advisories only, but the brake-related items have remained a consistent theme, with the 2025 test noting an offside rear inner brake pad wearing thin and an offside rear service brake binding, albeit not excessively. The combined record therefore shows two failures, multiple brake-related advisories on the rear axle, and repeated wiper defects across a four-year window. At 49,585 miles over approximately seven years of age, this C-MAX accumulates mileage at a rate of roughly 7,084 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age and segment. There are no extended gaps in the testing history that would suggest prolonged periods off the road, and the tests are spaced at near-annual intervals consistent with normal usage. This rate of accumulation implies steady but moderate wear on consumables such as brake pads, discs, tyres, and suspension components, rather than the accelerated wear associated with high-mileage use. However, the recurring rear brake advisories, combined with a dangerous pad thickness failure in 2023, indicate that the rear braking system has been under particular demand and that the working components in this area warrant close scrutiny. For a prospective buyer, the priority areas for physical inspection and test drive evaluation should centre on the braking system, wiper mechanism, and tyres. Given the offside rear brake binding advisory from 2025, it is worth jacking the vehicle and checking that both rear wheels rotate freely by hand when released, with no roughness or resistance from the calipers, as binding can generate uneven pad wear and pulling under braking. A test drive should include several firm stops from moderate speed to detect any rear brake judder, pulling to one side, or a spongy pedal feel, particularly given the history of rear pad wear. The nearside rear brake pipe and flexible hose should also be examined for corrosion, cracking, or swelling, as any deterioration in these lines would compromise the rear hydraulic circuit that has already shown signs of accelerated wear. The windscreen wiper issue, having manifested on both sides across different test events, suggests possible wear or contamination on the wiper linkage, splines, or motor rather than simply blade condition. With the engine running and the wipers activated, listen for any knocking, ticking, or grinding from the wiper mechanism, and observe whether the blades sweep the full intended arc without streaking or skipping across the glass. Tyre condition is another focal point, as the 2024 advisory noted offside rear tyre wear close to the legal limit and worn on edge, which can indicate a tracking or suspension geometry issue, particularly worn rear bushes or trailing arms. An inspection of the rear suspension, including the trailing arm bushes, coil springs, and shock absorbers for any cracking, sagging, or fluid leakage, would be prudent, and during the test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking over speed humps and uneven road surfaces that could point to deteriorated rear suspension components.