2009 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · EO59 JXR

The vehicle presents a concerning roadworthiness profile characterized by a history of reactive rather than proactive maintenance. While it passed its most recent test in September 2025 at 116,654 miles, this followed a failure just two days prior at 114,425 miles. The trend shows recurring mechanical failures where components are only addressed after failing a formal inspection. The recent presence of an inoperative engine management light during the previous test suggests that significant electronic or sensor issues were ignored until forced into repair. At 116,654 miles, this 17-year-old S-Max averages approximately 6,862 miles per year, which is consistent with typical family vehicle usage in the UK. However, the mileage accumulation between September 2024 and September 2025 shows 3,297 miles, indicating a period of consistent use. The data suggests the car is driven regularly, yet the repeated failures for basic lighting and suspension components indicate that basic preventative checks are frequently neglected in favor of minimum MOT compliance. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the rear suspension and braking system. The record shows a persistent issue with coil spring corrosion dating back to 2023, which culminated in a fractured offside rear spring in 2025. Although one was replaced, the remaining nearside spring remains corroded, suggesting a wider pattern of rust across the assembly. Furthermore, the front inner brake discs were noted as worn in 2025, and the rear discs were significantly worn shortly prior, indicating the entire braking system is nearing service intervals. Special attention is required for the structural integrity of the rear lower suspension arms, which were flagged for corrosion in the September 2024 tests. The persistent oil leak noted in 2023 should also be monitored to ensure it has not progressed into a more significant seal failure. Given the history of child seats preventing full inspections of the seat belts, the buyer should personally verify the condition of all interior restraints and any hidden damage that may have been obscured during previous tests.