2016 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · FJ66 XKA

The 2016 Ford S-Max presents a stable roadworthiness record over the past two years, with the most recent MOT in September 2025 at 89,007 miles passing without defects—a positive indicator of consistent upkeep. The only prior advisory in April 2025 was minor, limited to a deteriorating front registration plate, which poses no mechanical risk. However, the vehicle’s history includes a notable brake-related issue in April 2023, where the offside rear brake pads were flagged as thin and contributed to a failure due to misaligned headlamps. That the pads were addressed before the next test (April 2024) suggests they were replaced or renewed, as no further brake advisories or defects have appeared since. This pattern implies that while brake wear was once a concern, it has since been managed effectively, though a buyer should verify current pad thickness and brake system condition. The mileage accumulation of roughly 8,900 miles per year aligns closely with the vehicle’s age, suggesting neither excessive use nor prolonged neglect. The most recent 6,584-mile interval between the April 2025 and September 2025 MOTs is typical for a well-maintained car, while the 10,688-mile gap between April 2024 and April 2025 may reflect seasonal variations in usage. There are no red flags in the mileage data to suggest rapid deterioration or deferred maintenance, though the absence of earlier records beyond 2023 means long-term trends cannot be fully assessed. For a buyer, the primary focus should be the brake system, particularly the rear pads and calipers, given the 2023 advisory. While the vehicle passed subsequent tests, binding calipers or uneven pad wear could still develop, especially if the previous owner prioritised only the minimum legal requirements. The suspension components—such as bushes, coil springs, and ball joints—should also be checked for wear, as these are high-mileage items prone to fatigue. Structural integrity is less of a concern here, but a thorough inspection of the undertray (noted as fitted in 2025) and wheel arches for corrosion would be prudent, given the vehicle’s age and the potential for hidden rust in high-stress areas. Tyre condition and tread depth should be verified, as these are consumables that may not have been recorded in the MOT but are critical for safety.