2012 Ford C-MAX 2.0L Diesel · LB61 AVV

The most recent MOT, conducted on 1 September 2025, was passed with no recorded defects, and the three preceding annual tests in 2024, 2023 and 2022 also returned clean passes. This uninterrupted sequence of fault‑free examinations indicates a stable maintenance pattern; there is no evidence of a deteriorating condition or of recurring issues that have required remedial work. The vehicle appears to have been kept in a state that satisfies the DVSA’s safety and emissions criteria consistently over the last four years. With a recorded 71 553 miles on the clock after fourteen years, the average annual mileage works out at roughly 5 100 miles. That figure is well below the typical UK average of around 10‑12 000 miles per year and suggests the C‑Max has been subject to relatively light duty, possibly with periods of extended storage. Low mileage reduces the cumulative wear on engine internals, transmission components and the suspension, but it also raises the likelihood that some parts have aged without being exercised, such as rubber seals, hoses and tyre compounds, which can deteriorate simply with time. For a buyer, the primary physical checks should focus on age‑related degradation. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or hardening of the rubber, and verify that tread depth meets the legal minimum and is even across the tyre width, as uneven wear can hint at misaligned suspension or worn bushes. Examine the 12‑volt battery for signs of sulfation or reduced cranking power; a load test or a voltage reading above 12.6 V at rest is advisable. Since the car may have spent time stationary, assess the brake discs and pads for surface rust, glazing or uneven wear, and listen for any shudder or pulsation when applying the brakes. Check the suspension components—coil springs, shock absorbers and rubber bushes—for any looseness, squeaks or clunking over bumps, which can develop when rubber ages in place. Finally, verify that the service book contains regular oil, filter and coolant changes in line with Ford’s recommended intervals, as fluids can break down chemically even if mileage is low. Look for any signs of oil, coolant or brake fluid leaks around the engine bay, under the vehicle and at the wheel cylinders. Inspect the under‑carriage for corrosion, especially in the wheel arches and chassis rails, and ensure the exhaust system is free of cracks or excessive rust that could affect emissions compliance. Confirm that all warning lights on the dashboard illuminate correctly on start‑up and extinguish after the engine stabilises, and that the steering feels precise without excessive play. These checks will give a comprehensive picture of the car’s roadworthiness beyond the clean MOT record.