2019 Ford S-MAX 1.5L Petrol · LL69 HHS

The 2019 Ford S-Max received its latest MOT test on 19th September 2026 and passed, though it did fail on 11th May 2026 due to a non-compliant windscreen wiper system. The overall maintenance trend is mixed but not alarming, with a recent improvement following the failed test. The vehicle has passed three out of the last four MOTs, indicating a stable condition, though the persistent rear brake pad wear advisories and tyre damage warnings suggest ongoing or recurring issues that require attention. The presence of multiple advisories, particularly those related to seat belts and rear tyres, indicates that the vehicle has been subject to some wear and tear, but the lack of major failures in recent years points to responsible ownership or remedial action taken before the 2026 test. The recorded mileage of 29,125 miles for a vehicle aged seven years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 4,161 miles per year, which is unusually low for its age. Such low mileage can result from lighter use, long periods of stationary storage, or infrequent operation, which may contribute to specific wear patterns. For example, standing for extended periods can lead to brake system corrosion, particularly in the caliper pistons and brake discs, as moisture and road salt can accelerate rust formation. Additionally, the absence of significant mileage accumulation over the years might mean that consumables like brake pads and tyres have not been subjected to the same level of wear as vehicles with higher annual mileage, but this also raises questions about whether the vehicle has been properly maintained or if it has been left unused for prolonged periods. Given the MOT history and the low mileage context, prospective buyers should conduct a thorough inspection to address both immediate and long-term concerns. First, focus on the rear brake system, as the thin brake pads and potential corrosion from standing are critical issues. Inspect the rear brake discs for signs of warping, glazing, or excessive heat damage, and check for any binding or grinding noises when braking. The calipers should be free of rust and the pistons should move smoothly without resistance. Listen for any clunking or rattling sounds during the test drive, which could indicate loose suspension components or worn suspension bushes. The rear tyres, particularly the near-side, show signs of damage and wear, so verify that the tread depth is legal and that there are no cracks or bulges in the sidewall, as these can signal underlying structural issues or age-related perishing. For the seat belt system, the offside front webbing is frayed, which is a safety concern that should be addressed promptly. Replace the damaged webbing immediately, as frayed belts can fail under load and pose a serious risk during an accident. The rear child seat advisory suggests that the seat may not be positioned correctly, obstructing the driver’s view, which is a minor inconvenience but could be rectified to improve visibility and safety. The windscreen wiper issue from the 2026 MOT failure should also be resolved, as ineffective wipers are a safety hazard and will fail the next MOT. Lastly, given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, buyers should check for signs of tyre perishing, particularly on the offside rear tyre, as the sidewall cracks could indicate long-term exposure to environmental elements. Additionally, verify the 12-volt battery health, as prolonged disuse can lead to battery failure, and inspect the vehicle’s fluids for any signs of degradation, such as discolouration or sludge in the brake fluid or coolant. Finally, ensure that the service book is up to date, as the Ford S-Max typically requires a comprehensive service every 15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first, to maintain reliability and compliance with emissions standards.