2007 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · EO57 UWS

The vehicle presents a concerning maintenance profile with a clear trend of worsening structural and mechanical degradation. While it passed its most recent test in September 2023 at 147,092 miles, this followed two consecutive failures within one week that revealed critical safety defects. The last recorded MOT is now nearly three years old, meaning the vehicle is currently operating outside its legal roadworthiness window. The presence of significant structural corrosion and component wear suggests a reactive rather than proactive maintenance approach by the previous owner. At 147,092 miles over 19 years, the car averages approximately 7,700 miles per year, which is consistent with typical usage for an MPV. However, there is a significant gap in recorded data between October 2022 at 138,866 miles and September 2023 at 147,092 miles, where the vehicle covered over 8,000 miles in eleven months. This period of heavy use produced the extensive list of failures, indicating that components were likely neglected until the vehicle required major repairs to pass the re-test inspection. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the rear subframe and suspension mounting points, as the tester previously flagged corrosion in these areas. Although the rear coil springs and suspension arms were noted, the nearside front shock absorber progressed from a serious leak to a light misting by 2023, suggesting the damping system is nearing the end of life. The corrosion on the offside outer seat belt anchorage is also a structural concern that requires close monitoring for progression to ensure passenger safety remains intact. The history also shows recurring brake issues, with thin pads and weakened discs appearing across multiple tests between 2021 and 2023. The emissions failure in September 2023 suggests potential engine management issues or sensor faults that may not have been fully addressed beyond the pass. Given the age of the vehicle and the nature of the reported rust, the structural integrity of the chassis is the primary risk factor for any prospective buyer.