2010 Ford C-MAX 2.0L Petrol · FN60 KPL

The most recent MOT test for this 2010 Ford C-Max occurred on 2025-04-30 and resulted in a clean pass, indicating no defects were recorded at that time. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories and one major failure, particularly concerning the drivetrain and braking systems. While the latest test is positive, the presence of persistent wear advisories—such as thin brake pads and worn brake discs—suggests that the vehicle has undergone significant brake system usage over its lifetime, potentially indicating either heavy or prolonged driving conditions or neglect in maintaining brake consumables. The 2019 MOT failure, which highlighted excessively deteriorated drive shaft flexible couplings, is a critical red flag, as this component is non-replaceable and its failure would have rendered the vehicle unsafe. The fact that this issue was not rectified before the 2020 MOT tests implies either a lack of attention to maintenance or an oversight in the previous service history, warranting immediate investigation into whether the couplings have since degraded further. The recorded mileage of 85,732 miles for a vehicle aged 16 years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 5,358 miles per year, which is unusually low for its age. Such low mileage often correlates with periods of prolonged inactivity, particularly if the vehicle was stored under adverse conditions—such as exposure to moisture, extreme temperatures, or inadequate ventilation—which can accelerate wear on non-drive components like the battery, seals, and suspension. However, the absence of rapid mileage accumulation suggests that the vehicle has not been subjected to heavy or aggressive driving, which might mitigate some wear on drivetrain and suspension elements. Nevertheless, the low mileage alone does not negate the need for thorough inspection, as standing vehicles can suffer from corrosion in brake systems, binding calipers, and structural components due to prolonged idling. The advisories from previous MOTs, particularly those related to brake wear and flexible couplings, imply that the vehicle has been driven enough to cause noticeable consumption of consumables, but not so much that the drivetrain has been subjected to excessive stress. Given the MOT history and the vehicle’s age and mileage, the prospective buyer should conduct a meticulous physical inspection to address both immediate safety concerns and potential long-term issues. First and foremost, the drive shaft flexible couplings were classified as major failures in 2019, meaning they are likely beyond repair and could have already failed catastrophically before the last MOT. As these components are not replaceable, the buyer should verify their condition by listening for unusual vibrations or clunks at highway speeds, particularly when accelerating or decelerating, and inspecting for excessive play or cracks in the mounting areas. If the couplings have not failed, they should be replaced immediately, as their deterioration compromises drivetrain integrity and safety. Additionally, the brake system exhibits recurring wear advisories, with thin pads and worn discs noted in multiple MOTs. A test drive should include checking for uneven brake pedal travel, a spongy or pulsating feel when braking, or audible grinding or squeaking noises, which could indicate worn pads, warped discs, or binding calipers. Brake fluid should be checked for contamination or moisture, as standing fluid can corrode brake components over time. Beyond the mechanical concerns, the buyer should pay close attention to the vehicle’s exterior and interior for signs of prolonged standing-related damage. The advisories from 2024 and earlier mention tyre wear close to legal limits and slight damage or perishing, which suggests that the tyres may require replacement soon, given the cumulative wear over multiple MOTs. Tyres should be inspected for sidewall cracking, which can occur from age or exposure to UV radiation, even if the tread depth is legal. The near-side rear direction indicator’s discolouration is a minor but noticeable advisory, but it does not affect roadworthiness and can often be ignored unless it impacts visibility. The missing rear seats, noted in 2022, are not a safety concern but may affect passenger comfort and resale value. For fluid servicing, given the vehicle’s age, the buyer should check the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant for signs of degradation or contamination, as these fluids can break down over time even with low mileage. Finally, the battery should be tested for strength, as prolonged inactivity can lead to reduced capacity or failure, and the ignition system should be inspected for spark plug wear or electrical issues, which can become problematic as the vehicle ages. A comprehensive service history should be reviewed to confirm that all scheduled maintenance—such as timing belt replacement (if applicable), suspension servicing, and exhaust emissions checks—has been conducted.