2012 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · EX12 MPE

The most recent DVSA test on 11 March 2026 returned a Pass, but it was accompanied by a Minor defect and four advisories, indicating that while the vehicle remains legally roadworthy, several components are beginning to show meaningful wear that warrants attention. The maintenance trend across the recorded MOT history is clearly worsening rather than stable. The 2020 and 2021 tests passed with minimal or no advisories, and the 2022 and 2023 tests were completely clean. However, the 2024 test saw a Fail with two Major defects related to the rear seat belt buckle and the offside front steering rack gaiter, and from 2024 onwards the volume of advisories relating to corroded rear coil springs, worn suspension bushes, and steering rack play has steadily accumulated. This pattern is consistent with a high-mileage vehicle entering a phase of increasing component wear, particularly within the suspension and steering assemblies. With 184,787 miles recorded over approximately 14 years, this S-Max has covered an average of around 13,199 miles annually, which is notably high for its age and points to prolonged heavy use. There are no significant gaps in the MOT record that would suggest long periods of standing, and the steady accumulation of mileage implies that the engine, transmission, clutch, and drivetrain components have all endured considerable wear. A vehicle of this mileage and age should be expected to have had at least one or possibly two timing belt or chain services, multiple clutch replacements, and regular attention to turbocharger and injector components if applicable, all of which should be verified through the service history. The recurring advisories for corroded rear coil springs across the 2024, 2025, and 2026 tests are a particular concern. Ford S-Max rear coil springs are known to corrode and fracture due to salt exposure, and continued driving with weakened springs risks sudden snapping, which can affect handling and tyre wear. On a test drive, listen for any audible clunk or knocking from the rear over bumps, and observe whether the vehicle sits unevenly or displays excessive rear-end float over undulations. The steering rack inner joint play noted in both 2021 and 2025 advisories suggests progressive wear in the rack assembly, which typically manifests as a slight looseness or knocking through the steering wheel, particularly over rough surfaces or during full-lock manoeuvres. Given the 2024 Major defect for a missing steering rack gaiter, it is essential to confirm the gaiter is intact and that the inner joints have not deteriorated further, as contamination from dirt ingress accelerates wear within the rack. The advisories concerning the offside rear trailing arm bush and the offside front constant velocity boot also merit close physical inspection before purchase. A deteriorated CV boot will continue to weep grease and will eventually split, leading to joint failure if not replaced, so check for fresh grease around the boot and any clicking noise when turning at full lock. The worn trailing arm bush should be inspected for cracking or movement beyond the advisory threshold. Additionally, the non-functioning high-level stop lamp is a minor electrical item but should be rectified. Given the vehicle's age and mileage, a prospective buyer should also verify the condition of the timing belt or chain service history, inspect the tyres for age-related sidewall cracking, test the 12-volt battery under load, check the brake discs for corrosion or lipping consistent with high mileage, and confirm that the brake fluid and coolant have been changed within their recommended calendar intervals regardless of the odometer reading, as fluid degradation occurs with time as well as use.