2012 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · JC07 HOL

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 19 June 2026, although this followed an immediate failure due to dangerous tyre tread depths. While the vehicle enjoyed a period of clean test histories between 2021 and 2023, the overall maintenance trend has shifted toward a worsening state. The emergence of multiple advisories and a dangerous failure suggests a recent decline in proactive upkeep, moving from a well-maintained state to one where critical consumables are being run to the legal limit. With a recorded mileage of 92,353 miles over fourteen years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 6,597 miles per year. This is considered typical usage for a multi-purpose vehicle of this age and suggests a balanced duty cycle. However, at this mileage threshold, the vehicle is entering a phase where wear-and-tear components such as suspension bushings, dampers, and steering linkages typically require inspection or replacement to maintain original handling characteristics and safety. Prospective buyers must pay close attention to the steering and braking systems. The advisory regarding play in the nearside front steering rack inner joint is a significant mechanical concern. During a test drive, listen for knocking or clunking sounds when turning the steering wheel at low speeds or when traversing uneven road surfaces. This defect can lead to erratic tyre wear and reduced steering precision. Additionally, the offside front brake pads are noted as wearing thin, which may manifest as increased stopping distances or a slight shudder under heavy braking. The tyre history reveals a pattern of neglect, including perishing and tread wear reaching dangerous levels. It is essential to inspect all four tyres for sidewall cracking and uneven wear patterns, which could indicate further alignment issues stemming from the steering rack play. Verify that the tyres replaced following the June failure are of a quality grade and not budget alternatives used solely to pass the test. Finally, given the vehicle's age, a thorough check of the service records is advised to ensure that calendar-based fluid changes, such as brake fluid and coolant, have been performed regardless of the moderate annual mileage.