2014 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · EN63 NTG

The 2014 Ford S-Max currently presents a stable mechanical status following a clean pass on 2025-09-05 at 85,147 miles, though the maintenance trend reveals a reactive approach to vehicle care. On the same day, the tester flagged a failed attempt due to severely compromised tyres and a parking brake efficiency dropping below 50 percent of the required value. The subsequent pass confirms these specific items were rectified, but failing on tyre integrity and parking brake performance immediately before a clean test suggests basic upkeep was deferred until absolutely necessary. Accumulating 85,147 miles over twelve years yields a typical annual average of roughly 7,096 miles, but the recent history shows a notable drop in usage. The vehicle covered 6,016 miles between January 2024 and January 2025, yet only added 2,613 miles in the subsequent eight months leading to the September 2025 test. This reduced mileage accumulation points toward lighter use or prolonged periods of standing, a factor that likely contributed to the parking brake mechanism seizing or underperforming. A physical inspection should prioritise the front braking system and rear suspension components. The tester repeatedly flagged the front brake discs as worn, pitted, or scored on the inner faces during the January 2025 test, an advisory that demands scrutiny of disc thickness and surface condition today. The tester condemned the nearside rear suspension arm pin or bush for excessive wear in January 2025, requiring replacement to pass. A buyer must check for any returning play or knocking from that suspension arm, as well as the condition of the rear coil springs and associated bushes. Beyond the suspension and brakes, the parking brake system and tyre condition warrant close examination. The tester recorded a parking brake efficiency failure in September 2025, indicating potential issues with the rear calipers, cables, or adjustment mechanisms. The tester condemned both the nearside front and rear tyres for cuts reaching the ply or cords, meaning a buyer must carefully inspect the sidewalls of the current tyres for similar damage or dry rot, given the vehicle's recent tendency toward standing idle.