2009 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · LG59 CBF

A pattern of rear suspension deterioration defined the mid-term history of this vehicle, culminating in a failure for worn nearside and offside rear suspension arm bushes in September 2021. Following the rectification of these components and the subsequent replacement of deteriorated registration plates, the vehicle has maintained a stable roadworthiness record, including a clean pass on 30 August 2024. With 142,506 miles recorded over seventeen years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 8,383 miles per annum, which is typical for its age. This consistent usage profile means that drivetrain components, braking systems, and suspension mounts have been subjected to standard cumulative fatigue, making the condition of these wear-and-tear items a primary consideration. Inspection and test drive efforts should focus specifically on the rear suspension architecture due to the previous failures and advisories regarding the arm pins and bushes. Listen for audible knocks or clunks when driving over speed bumps or potholes, and assess whether the vehicle exhibits any instability or wandering during cornering, which can indicate that the suspension linkages are again reaching the end of their service life. Ensure the rear tyres are inspected for irregular wear patterns, as this is a frequent physical symptom of the suspension arm bush wear previously recorded. A thorough check of the underbody for any further deterioration of the suspension mounting points is advised to ensure the structural integrity of the rear axle assembly remains intact following the previous major failures.