2009 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · EA59 BZG

The vehicle remains technically roadworthy but the maintenance history reveals a persistent trend of deferred attention toward aging suspension components. While the most recent test in August 2025 at 85,259 miles passed, it highlighted the same structural-related advisories that have appeared in every previous annual inspection. The recurring nature of corrosion on the rear anti-roll bar and coil springs suggests a pattern where components are only maintained to the absolute minimum required for a pass rather than undergoing preventative replacement. At 17 years old, this S-Max shows a notably low mileage profile, averaging approximately 5,000 miles per year. The data shows consistent annual usage, moving from 63,870 miles in August 2021 to 85,259 miles in 2025. However, the low mileage likely contributes to the degradation of rubber components and age-related corrosion. The records of cracking and perishing tyres across multiple years indicate that the rubber is failing due to age and periods of standing rather than wearing out through high mileage. A physical inspection must focus heavily on the rear suspension assembly. The tester has repeatedly flagged corroded coil springs and anti-roll bars since 2021, with worn suspension arm pins and bushes appearing in the most recent two tests. These issues are progressing from surface corrosion to mechanical wear in the joints and rubber bushings. A buyer should check for significant structural rust on the mounting points and ensure the corrosion on the springs has not reached a point of imminent structural failure under load. The braking system also shows signs of neglect. The 2022 test noted thin pads and pitted discs, which often occur on vehicles with low-frequency use. Given the recent reports of nails and cracked sidewalls in both 2024 and 2025, the buyer must verify the age of all four tyres, as cracking indicates a safety risk regardless of tread depth. The overall narrative is a vehicle that is driven sparingly but suffers from the inevitable decay of its age-related rubber and metal components.