2016 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · FE16 FMM

A clean and consistently unblemished MOT history defines this 2016 Ford S-Max, with five consecutive passes on record and zero advisories, defects, or failures logged across the available DVSA testing window. The most recent pass on 19 January 2026 carried no defects, reinforcing a stable roadworthiness profile that has not wavered across successive annual tests dating back to the end of 2022. The absence of even minor advisory notes over this five-test span is notable for a vehicle of this age and mileage, suggesting that components typically flagged during routine MOT inspections such as suspension components, brake lines, underbody corrosion, exhaust systems, and tyres have remained within serviceable limits at each annual assessment. This clean record presents the vehicle as one that has either been conscientiously maintained or has simply not yet reached the wear thresholds where component deterioration triggers advisory recording. Against an approximate age of ten years, the recorded mileage of 93,818 miles equates to an annual accumulation rate of around 9,400 miles, which sits comfortably within the typical usage bracket for a large family MPV of this vintage. There are no extended gaps in the testing history that might suggest long periods of off-road storage or SORN declaration, and the relatively even spacing of tests through 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and into early 2026 indicates continuous road use. The mileage progression between tests appears steady and proportionate to the annual intervals, with no abrupt jumps or unusually low figures that would warrant suspicion of clock irregularities. For a turbocharged diesel or petrol S-Max of this generation, an annual mileage in this range is consistent with mixed family and commuter use, where engine, transmission, and drivetrain components have been regularly exercised rather than left to deteriorate through inactivity. Although the MOT history does not flag any specific components, prospective buyers should remain attentive to the areas that most commonly affect S-Max vehicles once they pass the 90,000 mile mark. On a test drive, listen carefully for any knocking or clonking noises from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, as the S-Max is known for wear in the front lower control arm bushes, anti-roll bar drop links, and stabiliser bar joints, even where these have not yet triggered an MOT advisory. Steering response should feel precise and free from excessive play, and any clonking when turning at low speed or during parking manoeuvres can indicate worn suspension linkages. Apply the brakes firmly from moderate speed to check for any pulling to one side, judder through the pedal, or grinding noises that could point to binding calipers, warped front discs, or worn pad material that has not yet worn to advisory limits. Inspect the underside thoroughly during any viewing, paying particular attention to the front subframe mounting points, rear suspension arms, and brake pipes for any surface corrosion that could be on the verge of developing into a structural advisory at the next test. Check for any signs of oil misting or dampness around the engine and gearbox, particularly from the cam cover gasket, timing chain area, and turbocharger oil feed lines, which are common seepage points on higher-mileage S-Max variants. During the road test, ensure the automatic or manual transmission shifts smoothly without hesitation or clonks, and verify that the clutch on manual examples engages cleanly without slipping under load. Finally, confirm that the dual-clutch or conventional automatic changes are free from harsh judders at low speed, as transmission wear can become more apparent once a vehicle passes 90,000 miles regardless of MOT outcomes.