2008 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · LB08 ADO

The vehicle presents a mixed maintenance profile with a recent trend suggesting intermittent neglect of minor components and mechanical wear. The most recent test on 4 March 2026 at 134,787 miles passed, but the tester noted that the parking brake efficiency only just passed and the offside front seat belt webbing remains damaged or frayed. This seat belt issue is a recurring fault, having previously caused a failure in March 2024. While the vehicle is currently roadworthy, the marginal pass on the parking brake indicates a potential decline in braking system performance that requires monitoring. The mileage accumulation is consistent with an 18-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 7,500 miles per year. The records show steady usage, with the odometer moving from 119,860 miles in March 2023 to 134,787 miles in March 2026. There are no significant gaps in the annual testing history, which suggests the vehicle has been in regular use rather than sitting stationary for long periods. This consistent mileage pattern supports the likelihood that wear on consumables like tyres and brakes follows a predictable lifecycle. A prospective buyer should focus heavily on the suspension and structural integrity due to significant failures in the recent past. The March 2024 test revealed serious issues, including a corroded and weakened offside rear coil spring mounting that had corroded through, alongside a worn offside front lower suspension arm ball joint. Although these were rectified for the 2024 pass, the history of distorted nearside front road wheels dating back to 2021 suggests a persistent issue with wheel alignment or impact damage. The tester also flagged a distorted wheel in 2022, 2023, and 2024, which may indicate underlying suspension geometry problems or repeated heavy impact. The braking system also warrants a physical inspection. The 2019 record noted fluctuating service brakes, and the 2026 test highlighted a marginal pass for parking brake efficiency. Given the history of deteriorating trailing arm rubber bushes in 2017 and various suspension component failures, a thorough check of all bushings, ball joints, and the condition of the rear brake mechanism is essential to ensure the previous structural repairs remain effective.