2014 Ford B-MAX 1.6L Petrol · FT64 DHX

A consistent record of clean MOT passes, free of advisories for the past four consecutive tests through to the July 2026 pass, defines the mechanical standing of this 2014 Ford B-Max. Across seven recorded tests, the only outright failure is an immediate re-test from 17 July 2023 for an offside front headlamp aim being set too low, which is a straightforward adjustment item and not indicative of any underlying structural or component defect. The advisories that did appear, both relating to the front brake discs in 2020 and 2021, were rated as not excessively worn and have not reappeared in the more recent tests, suggesting either that the discs were replaced or that they have worn in at a measured rate. There are no recorded advisories concerning corrosion, suspension components, exhaust integrity, tyres, or steering, which are the areas most commonly responsible for repeat advisories on vehicles of this age. With 51,592 miles recorded over roughly twelve years, this B-Max has covered approximately 4,300 miles annually, which is notably below the typical mileage for a car of its vintage. There are no significant gaps between tests and no evidence of mileage stagnation, indicating that the vehicle has been in consistent but light use rather than left dormant for extended periods. From a mechanical standpoint, low annual mileage reduces wear on major drivetrain components and limits fatigue cycles on the clutch, brakes, and suspension, but it can also accelerate ageing of rubber components such as bushes, mountings, and seals that deteriorate through time rather than use. The B-Max is known for its sliding rear doors, so attention to the mechanisms and seals around these is worthwhile, though nothing in the MOT record flags any concern in that area. For a prospective buyer, the key components to physically inspect are the front brake discs and pads, as these were the only items to ever attract advisory attention. On a test drive, listen for any brake judder through the steering wheel under firm pedal pressure, which would suggest disc runout or uneven wear, and check for any grinding or squealing on light application. Inspect the visible inner and outer disc surfaces for a pronounced lip at the outer edge, scoring, or patches of rust pitting, as discs that have worn to or close to their minimum thickness will require replacement regardless of how they appeared at the last test. Given the light overall mileage, the brake calliper slide pins and guide bushes are worth a visual check for seizure, as these can corrode on cars that see predominantly low-speed, short-journey use. The headlamp aim issue from 2023 is unlikely to recur provided the adjustment has not been disturbed, but it is worth confirming during a pre-purchase inspection that both headlamps project an even, level beam on a flat surface, particularly after any work involving removal of the front bumper or radiator support. Given the B-Max's compact MPV layout, it is also prudent to check the rear sliding door rollers and tracks for smooth operation, the tailgate struts for holding the door aloft without sinking, and the rear suspension trailing arms and bushes for any knocking over uneven road surfaces, as these are common wear points on the platform. A thorough underside examination for any surface corrosion on the subframe, brake pipes, and fuel lines is sensible on any twelve-year-old vehicle, even though the MOT history has not flagged any such concerns, and a brake fluid test would be advisable given the general age of the hydraulic system.