2013 Ford C-MAX 1.6L Diesel · EX63 GDV

The latest MOT inspection conducted on 12 February 2026 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle failed the initial test due to several significant advisories regarding the braking system and tyre tread depth. While the vehicle has maintained a clean MOT history from 2021 through 2025, the recent transition from a clean certificate to one with multiple advisories suggests a sudden decline in the condition of consumable components. This shift indicates that the vehicle is currently entering a phase of required maintenance, moving from a period of stability into a period where wear-related items are reaching the end of their serviceable life. The recorded mileage of 69,574 miles for a 2013 model represents an average annual usage of approximately 5,352 miles. This is significantly lower than the UK national average, suggesting the vehicle has been used sparingly or has undergone periods of being stationary. While low mileage generally implies less mechanical wear on the engine and drivetrain, it can lead to secondary issues such as component degradation due to inactivity. In this specific case, the recent advisories regarding pitted and scored brake discs are highly characteristic of a vehicle that has been driven infrequently, as brake discs often develop surface corrosion and pitting when they are not regularly cleaned by frequent, firm braking applications. A prospective buyer must prioritize a thorough inspection of the front braking system. The advisories for thin brake pads and pitted or scored brake discs on both the nearside and offside fronts indicate that a complete front brake overhaul, including new pads and discs, is likely imminent. During a test drive, you should listen for any grinding noises when applying the brakes and feel for any pulsations or shuddering through the brake pedal, which would indicate uneven disc surfaces or warping. Furthermore, the advisory regarding tyres being worn close to the legal limit or worn on the edges suggests potential issues with wheel alignment or suspension geometry. Check the tyres for uneven wear patterns, such as excessive wear on the inner or outer edges, which could signal worn suspension bushes or misaligned camber settings. Given the low annual mileage and the age of the vehicle, additional attention should be paid to components that degrade due to time rather than distance. Inspect the tyres for sidewall perishing or cracking, which is common in vehicles that sit idle for long periods. It is also advisable to verify the service history to ensure that fluids, such as engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid, have been changed according to calendar intervals rather than just mileage, as moisture ingress and chemical breakdown occur regardless of distance travelled. Finally, check the 12V battery health and the condition of rubber hoses and belts, as these items are prone to hardening and cracking in older, low-usage vehicles.