2014 Ford Galaxy 2.0L Diesel · MB14 SAL

A persistent and quite localised mechanical concern dominates the test history of this 2014 Ford Galaxy, namely repeated failure of the front outer constant velocity joint boots. The defect was first recorded as a major failure on 12 April 2023 affecting the offside front joint, resurfaced as a failure on 19 April 2024 on the nearside front joint, and appeared for a third consecutive year as a failure on 2 April 2025 again on the nearside front joint, with the vehicle passing on the same date only after remedial work. This three-year recurrence at the same wheel position suggests either replacement boots of marginal quality, retained contamination within the joint grease following the original boot failure, or a deeper issue such as a stretched or incorrectly seated clip allowing the new boot to split prematurely. Surrounding this core problem are recurring advisories that point to broader chassis and brake wear consistent with a vehicle of this age, most notably pitted and scored brake discs across all corners noted in 2025, and worn rear suspension arm pins or bushes on both sides flagged in 2024. The 2025 pass on 2 April shows the vehicle currently meets the statutory test standard, but the pattern of advisories combined with the repeated CV boot failures indicates an underlying wear profile that should not be dismissed. Recorded mileage of 98,496 miles across approximately twelve years equates to an average annual accumulation of roughly 8,200 miles, which is broadly typical for a large family MPV of this vintage and is unlikely to reflect either long-term storage or exceptionally heavy motorway use. MOT testing has been conducted annually without any significant gaps, beginning in January 2022 and continuing through to April 2025, indicating the car has been in continuous road use throughout the recorded period. At this mileage, mechanical wear on friction components, suspension consumables, and drivetrain mountings is to be expected, and the recorded advisories align with what one would anticipate for a vehicle approaching the upper end of its typical working life for a Galaxy. The absence of any mileage-progression anomalies between tests means the recorded figures can be relied upon as a credible basis for evaluating component wear. The near side front constant velocity joint is the single most important component to scrutinise on any inspection, given that it has now failed or required attention in three consecutive test cycles. On a test drive, listen carefully for a rhythmic clicking or knocking noise from the front wheel area, particularly during sharp low-speed turns such as entering a car park or performing a U-turn, which would indicate grease loss from the joint and metal-to-metal wear. Inspect the boot itself for any fresh grease deposits on the surrounding suspension arm or inner wheel arch, and check that the boot is correctly seated at both ends with intact retaining clips. If replacement has been carried out, ask for receipts confirming a quality OE-spec boot was used rather than a cheaper aftermarket item, and verify that the joint itself was repacked with fresh grease rather than merely having a new boot fitted over contaminated components. Any horizontal play when rocking the front wheel by hand would suggest the joint has already been compromised and requires replacement rather than further repair. The pitted and scored brake discs flagged in 2025 warrant particular attention, as scoring on the friction surface can lead to pedal vibration under heavy braking and indicates the discs are nearing the end of their service life. During a test drive, apply the brakes firmly from around 40 mph and feel for any pulsation through the brake pedal or shaking through the steering wheel, both of which would indicate disc runout. The worn rear suspension arm pins or bushes recorded in 2024 should also be re-examined, as such wear tends to progress between tests; bounce the rear of the vehicle firmly at each corner and listen for any secondary knocking or clonking as it settles, and push the car laterally from behind to feel for any vagueness or delayed response from the rear axle. The 2023 advisories regarding rear tyre edge wear should also prompt a check of the rear wheel alignment, as uneven shoulder wear typically points to either misalignment or worn rear suspension geometry. Given the cumulative pattern of advisories alongside the recurring boot failures, a pre-purchase inspection by a specialist familiar with the Ford Galaxy platform would be prudent to identify any components approaching the failure threshold before they become safety defects at the following MOT.