2014 Ford B-MAX 1.4L Petrol · GX14 XAV

The vehicle achieved a Pass on its most recent MOT dated 12 March 2026, retaining only a single advisory relating to the nearside front tyre being worn close to the legal limit and worn on its edge. Looking back through the recorded history, the maintenance trajectory is broadly stable but shows a slight downward drift over the last two test cycles. The 2024 test was completely clean with no advisories recorded, whereas the 2025 and 2026 tests both flagged the same nearside front tyre wear issue, and the 2025 cycle additionally identified an oil leak from the engine or ancillary areas. The 2025 entry also shows a prior failure on the same date for ineffective front wiper operation and inoperative stop lamps, although the vehicle was subsequently repaired and re-presented the same day for a pass. The absence of any structural corrosion, brake, or suspension advisories across the entire recorded history is a reassuring indicator, but the persistence of tyre wear on the nearside front edge across multiple visits is worth investigating as it can suggest an underlying geometry issue. With 26,478 miles recorded over a twelve year life, this B-Max has averaged around 2,206 miles annually. That figure is notably low for a vehicle of this age and suggests either consistent light use or extended periods of standing between relatively short trips. The mileage progression between tests is broadly linear at around 2,000 to 3,000 miles per year, with no abrupt spikes or unusual gaps, which is consistent with a second vehicle or one used predominantly for urban errands. The mechanical implication of such restrained mileage is that wear-related components such as the clutch, brakes, and drivetrain are likely to be in good condition, but age-related degradation of rubber, fluids, and electrical components becomes the primary concern rather than outright mileage-driven wear. Turning to specific buyer inspection points, the recurring advisory on the nearside front tyre being worn on its edge is a detail that warrants close attention. On a test drive, listen for any pulling to one side, vague steering response, or uneven steering return, as these can indicate worn suspension bushes, a tired coil spring, or tracking misalignment. With such low annual mileage, it is also prudent to carry out careful physical checks for tyre sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber degrades with age irrespective of tread depth. Inspect the offside rear brake caliper area for any signs of sticking or binding given the 2022 advisory, and check that the rear brake discs are not suffering from advanced corrosion, pitting, or scoring from infrequent use. The persistent oil leak noted in 2025 should be examined for fresh evidence of seepage from the cam cover, sump, or rocker cover gasket, with attention paid to any drips on the driveway or underside during inspection. Given the modest annual mileage, several time-based servicing items deserve particular verification before purchase. Confirm that the 12V battery is in good health, as low-use vehicles frequently suffer from battery failure through chronic undercharging rather than age alone. Check the service book for evidence of annual or biennial replacement of brake fluid, coolant, and the timing belt service interval relevant to the fitted engine, as these are calendar-sensitive rather than mileage-sensitive. On the road, allow the engine several miles to reach full operating temperature and verify that the oil pressure warning light extinguishes promptly, that the gearbox selects cleanly without clonks, and that the wipers and all exterior lighting function correctly, given the recent failure on these items. Finally, examine the underside and inner wheel arches closely for any evidence of surface corrosion from standing, paying particular attention to suspension arms, subframe mounting points, and brake lines, as low-mileage vehicles used primarily for short trips in winter conditions can still develop localised corrosion through lack of regular longer-distance drying cycles.