2014 Ford S-MAX 1.6L Diesel · EX14 AAU

The 1.6 TDCi diesel S-Max typically returns 50-55 mpg on a mixed run, dropping to around 40 mpg in town — fuel costs for 9,500 annual miles should be in the £1,400-£1,700 range depending on diesel prices. Road tax sits in a low band for diesels of this age, usually £20-£35 per year given the CO2 emissions. Insurance for an S-Max of this age falls into group 18-22 typically, so expect £500-£800 annually depending on your profile and postcode.

Annual maintenance is the main variable cost at this mileage — budget for routine items like brake discs and pads, tyres, and the rear suspension work already flagged. A rear axle swivel pin and bush replacement typically costs £300-£500 at an independent garage, and tyres for an S-Max are around £100-£150 each. With services around £200 and typical wear items, overall annual running costs should be in the £1,800-£2,200 region once you include the suspension work in year one.

The MOT history is dominated by suspension and tyre issues, so a thorough physical inspection of the rear axle is essential. Jack the car up and check the rear trailing arm bushes and the swivel pin assemblies for play — grab the rear wheel at top and bottom and rock it to feel for movement. The nearside and offside have both flagged up excessively worn swivel pins, so both sides will likely need attention. Check the rear tyres for uneven inner or outer wear, which would confirm the suspension geometry problem.

For the tyres specifically, the nearside front has cut twice on consecutive tests (2024 and 2025) — this is unusual and warrants checking the alloy wheel for damage, the tracking alignment, and whether the tyres are being run at correct pressures. On the diesel engine, check for excessive smoke on startup (blue or black), listen for timing chain rattle, and inspect the oil filler cap for mayonnaise-like residue indicating a head gasket concern. Finally, examine the underside for any oil leaks from the engine, gearbox, or power steering rack, and check the exhaust system for corrosion given the vehicle's age and mileage.