2014 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · GV14 XTA

Recurring issues with tyre wear, brake component degradation, and emerging suspension wear define the mechanical profile of this Ford S-Max. While the vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 01 November 2025, the record shows a consistent pattern of consumables reaching legal limits or failing entirely, including a dangerous failure in October 2023 due to insufficient brake pad thickness. The recent transition from tyre and brake-related advisories to suspension-specific defects, such as oil misting on the nearside front shock absorber and cracking in the front suspension arm bushes, suggests the vehicle is moving into a phase of wear related to chassis and damping components. The recorded mileage of 86,519 miles over approximately twelve years represents an average annual accumulation of roughly 7,210 miles. This usage pattern is relatively low for a vehicle of this age and type, which typically implies less frequent exposure to high-speed motorway running and potentially more frequent short-distance trips. Mechanically, this level of usage means that while drivetrain components may have lower cumulative wear, rubber components like suspension bushes and tyres are more susceptible to age-related degradation and perishing, a trend reflected in the frequent advisories regarding tyre edges and sidewall condition. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the front end of the vehicle during a test drive to address the most recent advisories. The light oil misting on the nearside front shock absorber and the reported cracking in the front suspension arm bushes may manifest as knocking or clunking noises when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps. Any noticeable pulling to one side or imprecise steering response could indicate that the wear in the suspension arm pins or bushes is progressing beyond the slight cracking noted in the 2025 test. The history of brake and tyre issues necessitates a thorough inspection of the braking system and wheel alignment. The 2024 advisory regarding a low parking brake reading on the offside rear, combined with previous failures for thin brake pads, means the rear braking components should be checked for even pressure and effective engagement. Furthermore, the repeated advisories for tyres wearing badly on the edges suggest potential issues with wheel alignment or camber settings. During a test drive, listen for uneven tyre noise and check for any steering wheel vibration or pulling, which would indicate that the tyre wear issues have not been fully rectified.