2012 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · LJ12 ABX

The vehicle remains roadworthy, but the maintenance history shows a clear trend of reactive rather than preventative care. The most recent test in May 2026 at 101,923 miles passed despite recurring issues with tyre condition and surface corrosion on the brake discs. While the vehicle consistently passes, the persistence of specific advisories suggests that components are only being addressed once they approach legal or functional limits rather than being replaced during scheduled intervals. At 14 years old with 101,923 miles, the S-Max has covered a consistent average of approximately 7,280 miles per year. The data shows a steady usage pattern with no significant gaps in testing, though the mileage accumulation slowed slightly between 2025 and 2026, where the vehicle covered only 7,708 miles in that year. This low-to-average annual mileage is typical for a family MPV, but it explains the age-related wear noted on components such as the rubber perishing and component degradation seen in the record. A buyer must prioritize inspecting the nearside front shock absorbers, which have been flagged for oil misting since 2022 and progressed to a reduced damping effect by 2025. This indicates a slow internal leak that likely requires replacement to restore vehicle handling stability. Additionally, the record notes worn rear suspension arm bushes from 2021; the inspector should check for excessive play or perished rubber in the rear suspension assembly, as these issues often lead to uneven tyre wear if ignored. The braking system shows a history of pitted and scored discs across multiple axles, dating back to 2019 through 2026. While these have not yet resulted in failures, the frequent mention of surface corrosion suggests long periods of standing or inadequate cleaning. The MOT history also highlights a pattern of neglecting tyre edge wear and sidewall damage, so the buyer should verify the current set of tyres for consistent tread depth and signs of alignment issues.