2007 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · KN57 KWF

The vehicle presents a concerning maintenance trend that appears to be worsening as mileage increases. While the October 2025 test at 123,214 miles resulted in a pass, the inspector flagged several issues including wearing brake pads, distorted road wheels on both the nearside front and offside rear, and a nearside front tyre worn to the inside edge. These defects, combined with the recurring nature of lighting and tyre issues, suggest a reactive rather than proactive approach to vehicle upkeep. The mileage accumulation is consistent with the vehicle's age, averaging approximately 6,500 miles per year. The record shows steady progression from 62,189 miles in 2016 to the current 123,214 miles. There are no significant gaps in the annual testing history, which provides a continuous view of the vehicle's condition. However, the frequency of failures, particularly the 2019 and 2023 tests, indicates that the vehicle often requires significant remedial work to meet minimum legal standards. A prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension and steering components. The history shows a pattern of issues including corroded nearside rear coil springs and misting shock absorbers in 2023, alongside steering rack inner joint play noted in 2019. The recent report of distorted wheels suggests potential damage to the suspension geometry or impact damage that may have gone unaddressed. The recurring presence of worn tyres and brake components indicates that consumables are often run to their absolute limits. Mechanical scrutiny of the engine and exhaust system is also necessary. The 2018 and 2019 records highlight issues with black smoke emissions and exhaust leaks, which could point to underlying fuel system or turbocharger concerns common in high-mileage diesel engines. Given the previous reports of low oil levels and oil leaks, the buyer must verify the current state of the engine seals and ensure the cooling and lubrication systems are fully operational.