2009 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · LL09 YOR

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Ford S-Max recorded a passing outcome on 2025-04-14, following a pattern of consistent compliance with roadworthiness standards over the preceding five years. However, the vehicle’s history reveals a notable decline in condition, particularly in 2021 and 2024, where critical failures and severe advisories were identified. The 2024-04-29 MOT failure highlighted major defects in the rear suspension arms’ bushings, indicating progressive wear that had reached a critical threshold, while the 2021-04-26 failure exposed dangerously thin brake pads on both rear axles—suggesting either neglect or rapid deterioration under heavy use. These recurring issues, especially the suspension and brake failures, point to a maintenance gap or underinvestment, with the vehicle’s condition now approaching a point where further delays could compromise safety. The vehicle’s mileage of 145,674 miles at the time of assessment represents a typical annual usage rate of around 8,569 miles, which is consistent with its age but does not inherently justify the severity of the recorded defects. The absence of extreme mileage spikes suggests that the wear patterns observed—particularly in suspension components and brake systems—are more likely influenced by prolonged standing, lack of regular servicing, or aggressive driving habits rather than sheer mileage alone. The 2021 failure, for instance, coincided with a period where the rear brake pads were dangerously worn, which could have been exacerbated by prolonged inactivity, allowing moisture and corrosion to accelerate pad degradation. Meanwhile, the coolant leak and tyre wear advisories from 2024-05-02 and 2025-04-14 indicate systemic issues that may stem from either a failure to address previous fluid or component failures or a lack of proactive maintenance. For a prospective buyer, the most pressing concerns stem from the rear suspension arms’ bushings, which failed in 2024-04-29 and likely require immediate replacement. Signs of this failure during a test drive would include clunking noises from the rear suspension when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces, particularly on the near- and offside sides, as well as a noticeable reduction in ride comfort or alignment issues such as steering pull. The brake system also demands urgent attention, with the 2021 failure revealing pads worn to critical thicknesses. Listen for a grinding noise when applying brakes, especially on the rear, and check for uneven brake pad wear or pulsation in the pedal, which could indicate warped discs or binding calipers. Additionally, the coolant leak should be investigated to prevent overheating, which could lead to engine damage, and the tyre wear patterns—particularly the edge wear—may signal alignment or camber issues that warrant a professional inspection. Beyond the immediate defects, the buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural integrity, focusing on the rear suspension components, as the bushings’ failure suggests further wear in related areas. Check for oil leaks around the rear wheel arches and undercarriage, as the 2021 oil leak advisory may have progressed. Inspect the brake discs for corrosion or excessive pitting, which could compromise their strength, and verify that the brake fluid is free of contamination and within the correct service interval—brake fluid degrades over time and should be replaced every two years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. For the tyres, despite the advisories, ensure they meet the legal minimum tread depth and look for signs of sidewall cracking, which can occur even at lower mileages due to age-related material degradation. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and the history of fluid-related advisories, a comprehensive service check—including a fresh coolant mix, brake fluid flush, and a full fluid top-up—should be prioritised to address the underlying issues before they escalate.