2016 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · DY16 VMW

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history reveals a reactive approach to repairs rather than proactive servicing. The most recent test in February 2026 at 54,660 miles showed a failure just one mile prior due to rear brake pads being below the legal limit of thickness and a pitted nearside rear brake disc. While the vehicle passed immediately after these repairs, the recurring nature of brake failures suggests the owner only addresses these components when forced by an MOT failure, rather than replacing them during scheduled service intervals. At 54,661 miles, this ten-year-old S-Max has a low average of approximately 5,466 miles per year. This low usage typically reduces wear on the drivetrain and engine, but it can lead to degradation of rubber-based components if the car sits for long periods. The 2023 test at 31,747 miles flagged multiple issues, including thin front and rear brake pads and both rear tyres reaching the legal limit. The fact that the vehicle passed in 2024 and 2025 without defects indicates a period of stable operation, though the return to failure in early 2026 highlights that the braking system is currently reaching the end of its service life. A buyer should conduct a close inspection of the braking assembly and suspension components, as the record shows a pattern of accelerated wear on discs and pads. Given the low mileage and age of the vehicle, it is also necessary to check for perished suspension bushes and any signs of early-stage corrosion on the lower chassis sections, which are not always highlighted unless they become structural risks. The current trend suggests the vehicle is mechanically sound for light use but requires consistent attention to consumable items to ensure long-term reliability.