2012 Ford S-MAX 1.6L Diesel · LS12 XEX

The most recent MOT recorded on 19 May 2025 resulted in a failure, principally for a dangerous off‑side front tyre with exposed ply and a near‑side front tyre close to the legal tread limit, together with a number of advisories concerning brake disc condition and suspension corrosion. Earlier in the same year a pass was logged, but the pattern over the past three years shows a shift from clean passes in 2022 and 2024 to a series of failures and major defects in 2024 and 2025, indicating a deteriorating maintenance trend that warrants careful scrutiny before purchase. At 105,943 miles the vehicle averages roughly 7,500 miles per annum, which is typical for a 2012 model and suggests no periods of extreme high‑speed use. The mileage progression appears steady rather than spiking, implying that wear on consumables is more a function of age than of excessive distance, although the relatively low annual mileage may also point to long intervals of inactivity that can accelerate corrosion and fluid degradation. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the braking system: both front discs are recorded as pitted or scored and rear discs show similar wear, while pads on all four corners have been flagged as thin on several occasions. On a test drive listen for a high‑pitched squeal or feel a pulsating pedal, which would indicate disc surface irregularities or pad glazing, and inspect the discs for deep scoring or rust that could compromise heat dissipation. The suspension arms on both sides have been noted as excessively worn at the inner bushings, so feel for clunking or uneven ride height when applying the brakes or driving over bumps, and examine the bushings for cracked rubber or corrosion that could lead to alignment drift. The off‑side front tyre’s exposed cords demand immediate replacement, and the near‑side front and rear tyres, already near the legal limit, should be measured for tread depth and sidewall condition; any signs of delamination, bulging or uneven wear may indicate underlying alignment or suspension issues. Additionally, the split inner CV boot on the near‑side front drive shaft must be inspected for grease leakage and dirt ingress, as failure can precipitate joint wear and eventual loss of drive. Given the vehicle’s age, a thorough visual check of the tyre sidewalls for age‑related cracking, the condition of the 12 V battery terminals and charge hold, and the state of all fluid reservoirs (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid) is essential, as time‑based degradation can occur even with modest mileage. Verify that the under‑tray is securely fitted and free of corrosion, and confirm that the rear registration lamp operates correctly, as its previous inoperability points to possible wiring or bulb issues. Finally, request a full service history to confirm that brake disc resurfacing or replacement, suspension bushings, and tyre replacements have been carried out in line with the advisories, and ensure that any pending work identified by the MOT is addressed before finalising the purchase.