2016 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · EX66 WEH

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 4 August 2026, though the result included a minor failure for a registration plate lamp and advisories regarding an engine oil leak and thinning rear brake pads. When reviewing the historical data, the maintenance trend indicates a gradual decline in condition. While the vehicle maintained a clean record between 2020 and 2022, the subsequent years have seen a steady increase in advisories related to braking components and tyre wear, suggesting that the vehicle is now entering a period where significant wear-and-tear items require more frequent replacement. With a recorded mileage of 79,314 miles over approximately ten years, the vehicle has averaged around 7,931 miles per annum. This usage rate is considered typical for a family vehicle of this age and suggests a consistent pattern of use rather than periods of prolonged standing or excessive motorway mileage. Mechanically, this level of usage implies that while the drivetrain should remain robust, the chassis and suspension components are likely experiencing standard age-related fatigue, and consumables will be reaching the end of their natural service life. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the braking system and tyre condition. The 2025 record highlighted worn and pitted front brake discs alongside thinning pads, and the most recent test now flags the rear pads as wearing thin. You should listen for any grinding noises or feel for brake shudder during a test drive, as this would indicate the front discs were not replaced following the 2025 advisory. Furthermore, the recurring mention of front tyres being worn on the edges suggests a potential misalignment or wear in the suspension bushes. Inspect the tread depth across the full width of the tyres to determine if the vehicle requires a four-wheel alignment or new control arm bushes. The emergence of an engine oil leak in the latest MOT is a point of concern that requires physical verification. During the pre-purchase inspection, examine the engine bay for signs of seepage around the rocker cover gasket or sump plug and check the ground beneath the vehicle for fresh droplets. While the inspector noted the leak was not excessive, oil ingress can attract road grit and degrade rubber hoses over time. You should verify the service history to ensure that oil changes have been performed at the correct intervals and check for any evidence of previous attempts to seal leaks, as this will indicate whether the issue is a minor weep or a symptom of a more significant gasket failure.