2012 Ford C-MAX 1.6L Diesel · LA12 UNS

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a shift from clean records to reactive repairs. The most recent test in May 2026 at 75,005 miles identified a severely deteriorated central front inner drive shaft joint constant velocity boot. While the car passed, the presence of this failure suggests a lack of proactive inspection regarding rubber components and drivetrain seals, following a period of defect-free testing in previous years. The mileage profile is notably low for a 14-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 5,350 miles per year. There is a significant gap in usage between March 2024 and May 2025, where the car covered over 12,000 miles in a single year, followed by a more relaxed pace of 7,700 miles leading to the 2026 test. This inconsistent usage pattern often correlates with the age of rubber-based parts, which can perish due to time and stationary periods rather than just mileage-related wear. A buyer must scrutinise the braking system and rear axle due to recurring issues. Tests in March 2024 and May 2025 both flagged fluctuating offside rear service brakes, while the 2025 record specifically noted pitted and scored brake discs. These indicators suggest potential sticking calipers or warped rotors that require close attention. Additionally, the repeated mention of perished rear tyres in both 2024 and 2025 confirms that the vehicle likely sat for long enough to cause significant sidewall cracking. The physical inspection should focus on the condition of all CV boots to ensure the recently flagged front boot has not resulted in grease loss or imminent joint failure. Given the low mileage and age, the buyer should also check for structural corrosion on the exhaust system and suspension mounts, as these often degrade on vehicles that are not driven frequently. The history indicates a vehicle that is maintained only when a failure is imminent rather than through a strict preventative schedule.