2010 Ford C-MAX 1.8L Diesel · GS52 LLS

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2010 Ford C-Max was conducted on 2025-09-17 and resulted in a pass, though it included two advisories of concern. The overall maintenance trend over the past five years is mixed, with a notable pattern of recurring issues—particularly with suspension components and braking systems—repeating in both 2021 and 2023, alongside persistent parking brake deficiencies in 2022 and 2023. While the vehicle passed in 2024 and 2022 without major defects, the presence of multiple advisories and failures in previous years suggests a history of wear-related degradation that may not have been fully addressed. The fact that the latest MOT was clean does not negate the need for thorough pre-purchase inspection, as some issues may have been mitigated or are still developing. The recorded mileage of 169,111 miles for a vehicle aged 16 years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 10,569 miles per annum, which aligns with typical expectations for a car of this age and class. However, the mileage data alone does not account for periods of disuse, which can exacerbate wear in certain systems. For example, standing vehicles are particularly susceptible to brake disc corrosion and binding calipers, as well as the degradation of suspension components like coil springs and ball joints due to lack of movement. Additionally, prolonged idleness may contribute to fluid degradation, such as brake fluid absorbing moisture or engine oil thickening over time. The combination of high mileage and potential standing periods could accelerate wear in critical areas like the steering rack, suspension linkages, and braking components. Given the vehicle’s history of MOT failures and advisories—particularly the repeated fractures of front and rear coil springs, parking brake inefficiencies, and brake disc wear—buyers should prioritise a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection. During this inspection, focus on the following areas: visually inspect the suspension for signs of excessive play or binding in the steering rack, particularly around the inner joints, and listen for clunking noises when driving over bumps, which may indicate worn or fractured suspension arms or ball joints. Check the braking system for uneven wear patterns on tyres, which could signal misalignment or binding calipers, and inspect the brake discs for corrosion, pitting, or excessive glazing. Test the parking brake for smooth engagement and ensure there is no excessive movement of the lever, which may indicate a failing cable or hydraulic system. Additionally, verify that the steering wheel does not exhibit excessive play or vibration, as this could point to issues with the steering rack or tie rods. For practical checks beyond the MOT history, given the vehicle’s age and mileage, buyers should examine the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even at moderate mileage due to prolonged exposure to UV light and temperature fluctuations. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and check the 12V battery’s charge capacity with a multimeter, as older vehicles are more prone to failing batteries, especially if the car has been left unused for extended periods. Fluid levels should be checked, with particular attention to brake fluid, which degrades over time and can absorb moisture, leading to gel formation and reduced braking performance. Lastly, verify that the service book records have been updated, particularly for oil changes and fluid top-ups, as time-based maintenance is critical for preventing catastrophic failures in high-mileage vehicles. If the vehicle has been driven regularly, the wear rate may be more manageable, but if it has been stationary for significant periods, the risk of hidden issues—such as seized suspension components or degraded braking systems—remains elevated.