2013 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · JT53 FAS

The 2013 Ford S-Max’s latest MOT test on 2026-03-31 resulted in a clean pass with no recorded defects, marking a positive outcome following a series of advisories from the preceding three years. While the vehicle has not faced any failures, the recurring advisories—particularly the persistent oil leak and rear brake disc wear—suggest a pattern of underlying mechanical issues that warrant closer attention. The fact that the advisories from 2025 were not upgraded to failures indicates that while the vehicle remains roadworthy, its components are approaching critical thresholds. This trend, combined with the vehicle’s age, implies that proactive maintenance will be essential to prevent escalation of wear, especially in the suspension and braking systems. The recorded mileage of 133,860 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 13 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 10,297 miles per annum, which is typical for its age group. Such mileage accumulation is consistent with regular driving patterns, though it does not necessarily indicate excessive wear if the vehicle has been maintained appropriately. However, the presence of advisories—particularly the corrosion of rear coil springs and the near-serious wear of brake discs—suggests that the vehicle may have been subjected to prolonged periods of standing or light use, which can accelerate corrosion in suspension components and accelerate brake disc pitting. Additionally, the oil leak advisories imply that the engine’s sealing integrity may be compromised, potentially leading to increased oil consumption or further internal damage if left unaddressed. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination are the rear suspension and braking systems. The advisories regarding corroded rear coil springs indicate that the vehicle’s rear suspension bushes are likely worn or failing, which could result in clunking noises when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. Listen for a rhythmic, metallic clunking or rattling from the rear axle area, particularly when the vehicle is driven at moderate speeds. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may indicate suspension misalignment or binding components. The near-serious wear of the rear brake discs suggests that the pads may be worn to the minimum safe thickness, and the discs themselves are pitted or scored, which can lead to reduced braking performance or premature disc failure. Inspect the discs for excessive heat discoloration or warping, and test the braking action for any signs of sponginess or vibration, which could indicate warped discs or contaminated brake fluid. Beyond the immediate advisories, the buyer should also address the oil leak, which may stem from a failing oil pan gasket, valve cover gasket, or oil filter housing gasket. A thorough inspection of these areas under the vehicle will reveal any signs of oil pooling or carbon buildup. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, it is advisable to conduct a full fluid check, including the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant, as these fluids can degrade over time, even without significant mileage. Check the brake fluid for contamination or bubbles, which could indicate a failing master cylinder or brake lines. The brake discs should also be inspected for signs of corrosion, particularly on the inner surfaces where condensation can accumulate while the vehicle stands. Lastly, verify that the service book contains stamps for the last oil change and fluid servicing, as the oil and filter should have been changed at approximately 15,000 miles or every 12 months, whichever comes first. Given the vehicle’s history, a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is strongly recommended to assess the extent of the oil leak and the condition of the suspension and braking components.