2008 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · ET57 AAK

The vehicle presents a deteriorating maintenance trend characterized by a failure to address escalating suspension and braking issues proactively. While it passed its most recent test in May 2025 at 179,101 miles, this followed a significant failure just two weeks prior at 179,091 miles. That failure revealed critical defects including poor parking brake efficiency, imbalanced rear brakes, and an insecure anti-roll bar. The persistence of these mechanical faults suggests that the owner performs only the minimum required to pass inspections rather than conducting preventative maintenance. At 179,101 miles, this 18-year-old S-Max has averaged approximately 9,950 miles per year, which is consistent with typical national averages. However, the mileage data shows a sharp spike in usage between January 2023 and January 2024, where the vehicle covered 18,410 miles in a single year. The more recent interval shows 4,359 miles covered between the January 2024 and May 2025 tests. This high-mileage accumulation puts significant strain on the chassis components, which likely explains the recurring wear observed on bushes and springs. A prospective buyer must prioritize a thorough inspection of the underbody for structural integrity. The MOT record consistently flags corrosion on the front subframe mounting areas and the rear axle since 2025; while these were not yet deemed excessive, the presence of surface rust on a vehicle of this age requires close monitoring. The recurring mention of corroded rear coil springs and worn axle swivel bushes indicates that the suspension geometry is nearing the end of its functional life. Furthermore, the braking system requires immediate attention, as the pitted and scored discs noted in May 2025 indicate that the components are thin and due for replacement.