2015 Ford C-MAX 1.6L Diesel · LB64 FMP

The most recent MOT test for the 2015 Ford C-Max occurred on 2025-10-13, where it failed due to a malfunctioning tyre pressure monitoring system and a non-functional near-side stop lamp. This failure represents a deviation from the vehicle’s prior MOT history, which predominantly showed clean passes with only minor advisories over the preceding five years. While the immediate failure indicates a mechanical or electrical issue that must be addressed promptly, the broader trend over the past decade remains relatively stable, with no evidence of systemic failures or progressive deterioration in structural or safety-critical components. The presence of recurring advisories on brake pad wear and tyre condition suggests routine consumption that aligns with typical usage patterns, though the recent failure underscores the need for immediate diagnostics to prevent further roadside breakdowns or safety hazards. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 89,729 miles over approximately 11 years reflects an average annual usage of around 8,157 miles, which is consistent with moderate to light daily commuting or seasonal driving. This rate of mileage accumulation is not unusually high for a 11-year-old car, particularly if it has been stored for extended periods without use, as such vehicles often accumulate fewer miles due to reduced operational demand. However, the absence of recent high-mileage spikes suggests that the vehicle has not been subjected to aggressive driving conditions or excessive wear on consumables like brakes, tyres, and suspension components. The consistent advisories on brake pad wear and rear tyre edge wear, particularly over multiple MOTs, imply that the driver has maintained a cautious approach to tyre rotation and brake maintenance, though further attention is required to prevent premature failure of these critical components. To proceed with a thorough inspection, the prospective buyer should prioritise checking the electrical systems identified in the latest failure, particularly the tyre pressure monitoring system and near-side stop lamp wiring or fuses, as these failures can often be resolved with straightforward diagnostics. On the mechanical side, the recurring advisories on brake pad wear—particularly front pads—should prompt a visual inspection for glazing, excessive heat discolouration, or signs of hydraulic fluid contamination, which could indicate underlying brake fluid degradation or hydraulic system issues. Listen for uneven brake pedal travel, pulsations during braking, or a metallic grinding noise when applying the brakes, as these symptoms may signal worn pads, warped discs, or binding calipers. Additionally, verify the rear brake pads for similar signs of wear, and check for excessive heat marks or glazing on the rear discs, which could suggest prolonged braking or hydraulic issues. For the tyres, inspect the near-side rear tyre for signs of excessive edge wear, which often indicates alignment or suspension problems, and confirm that the remaining tread depth meets the legal minimum. Beyond the MOT advisories, look for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur over time regardless of mileage, especially in vehicles that have been stored for extended periods. Ensure the tyres are evenly worn across the tread pattern to avoid directional bias or hydroplaning risks. The vehicle’s suspension should be examined for signs of worn suspension bushes, coil spring corrosion, or binding control arms, as these components can degrade silently over time and lead to uneven ride quality or handling issues. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and the potential for standing corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches, rocker panels, and undercarriage, a thorough visual inspection for rust and structural integrity is essential, as corrosion can compromise the vehicle’s safety and resale value. If the buyer is concerned about the battery health, given the electrical failures, test the 12V system for voltage drop under load and check for signs of corrosion at the battery terminals. For fluid servicing, consider replacing the brake fluid, coolant, and oil every 2–3 years, or as recommended in the service manual, to mitigate the risk of degradation from standing or prolonged use.