2011 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · EX11 MXY

A clear pattern of recurring rear coil spring corrosion advisories alongside two drive shaft CV boot failures within a four-year window defines the mechanical profile of this 2011 Ford S-Max, which recorded a pass on 11 February 2026 with a new advisory concerning perished front lower suspension arm inner bushes. The rear coil springs were first flagged in February 2021 and have appeared at every subsequent test, on both the nearside and offside, indicating progressive surface corrosion that has neither been resolved nor escalated to a structural failure but is consistently worsening. More urgently, the offside front outer CV boot failed in February 2022 and the nearside front outer CV boot failed in February 2024, each time as a Major defect preventing the ingress of dirt, suggesting that gaiter replacement has been reactive rather than preventative and that the inner CV joints may now be carrying contamination damage. The 2024 test also produced Major defects for both front wiper blades failing to clear the windscreen effectively, and the 2023 test recorded advisories on both front inner brake discs showing pitting and scoring, as well as both rear tyres worn to near the legal limit. The overall trend across the five recorded tests is therefore one of stable pass results undermined by a steady accumulation of advisories and two significant Major defects, with no clear evidence of remedial intervention on the suspension or drivetrain sealing components. Mileage accumulation of 137,379 miles over approximately fifteen years equates to a yearly average of around 9,159 miles, which sits broadly in line with typical usage for a vehicle of this age and class. There are no extended gaps between annual tests, with the vehicle presenting consistently each February from 2021 through 2026, indicating continuous road use rather than periods of standing. Sustained annual running at this rate places proportionate wear on suspension, braking, and drivetrain consumables, and the recorded component failures and advisories are consistent with that workload. The absence of any mileage gap or sudden jump means the wear pattern observed can be interpreted directly without compensating for lay-up periods or irregular use. For a prospective buyer, the front lower suspension arm inner bushes flagged at the most recent test warrant particular attention, as perished bushes on the S-Max can produce clonking noises over uneven surfaces, imprecise steering response, and uneven front tyre wear. The persistent rear coil spring corrosion advisories should be inspected visually for any cracking, flaking, or distortion of the spring coils, and the vehicle should be listened to for any rear suspension noise or sagging under load, particularly given that coil spring replacement on this platform is a known recurring rectification. A test drive should include sharp direction changes and moderate speed bumps to expose any slackness from worn suspension components, and the steering should be checked for vibration or knocking through the column which could indicate worn anti-roll bar drop links or track rod ends. The two CV boot failures suggest a thorough inspection of both front drive shafts is essential, with attention to any clicking or knocking on full lock at low speed, grease contamination on the inside of the front wheels, or torn gaiter rubber visible from beneath the wheel arch. The 2023 advisory on both front inner brake discs showing pitting and scoring means the braking system should be evaluated for pedal judder under firm application and any grinding or pulsing sensation, as the discs may now require machining or replacement. The 2021 engine oil leak advisory should also be revisited, with a check for fresh oil residue on the engine block, sump, or undertray, and the front wiper linkage and motor should be confirmed as functioning correctly given the 2024 dual wiper failure. Finally, a structural survey beneath the vehicle is advisable given the age and the recurring suspension advisories, with particular focus on the rear spring seats, subframe mounting points, and brake pipes for any advanced corrosion.