2010 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · ML60 VBJ

The most recent MOT test on the 2010 Ford S-Max occurred on 2026-02-27, where it passed after addressing the registration plate lamp failure and the near-side rear tyre edge wear that had caused a previous failure. This outcome, combined with the previous year’s clean test, suggests a stable maintenance trend with no worsening of critical defects. However, the recurring advisories on brake pad wear and tyre edge wear—particularly the front pads consistently nearing legal limits—indicate a pattern of ongoing mechanical attention required. While no major failures have persisted beyond minor advisories, the vehicle’s history reflects a need for proactive brake system monitoring, especially given the cumulative wear observed over the past six years. The recorded mileage of 129,828 miles for a vehicle aged 16 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 8,114 miles per annum, which is within the expected range for this model’s age and typical UK driving conditions. This level of mileage does not suggest either excessive wear from heavy use or prolonged idleness, though the absence of service records spanning the full 16-year period raises questions about whether the vehicle has been maintained according to Ford’s recommended intervals. Higher mileage tends to accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components, which aligns with the advisories seen in the MOT history. The near-side rear tyre edge wear and offside rear tyre irregularities could also imply uneven load distribution or alignment issues, warranting a closer inspection during a test drive for signs of misalignment or camber wear. To proceed with a thorough inspection, the buyer should prioritise checking the brake system for signs of uneven pad wear, binding calipers, or corrosion on the brake discs, particularly given the consistent advisories on front pad thickness. During a test drive, listen for any brake shudder, pulsation, or uneven stopping distances that could indicate warped discs or hydraulic issues. The recurring advisories on coil springs—both front and rear—suggest corrosion and potential mechanical fatigue, which may lead to clunking noises from the suspension when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. Inspect the springs visually for signs of breakage or excessive play, and check for excessive suspension travel or binding in the wheel wells. The central exhaust mounting defects and heat shield insecurity from past MOTs indicate that the exhaust system should be inspected for leaks, structural integrity, and proper mounting, as corrosion and loose components can compromise emissions control and structural stability. For practical checks beyond the MOT history, the buyer should verify the tyre condition for sidewall perishing or cracking, which can occur even at moderate mileage due to age-related degradation. Given the vehicle’s age and the advisories on tyre edge wear, ensure the tyres are balanced and aligned correctly to prevent further uneven wear. The near-side rear tyre nail advisory suggests a puncture or minor damage that may have been repaired, so checking for embedded nails or signs of reinflation damage is advisable. Additionally, the vehicle’s battery health should be assessed, as prolonged standing or low usage can lead to sulphation or corrosion in the terminals, which may not have been flagged in the MOT due to the absence of electrical system failures. Finally, while the MOT history shows no failures in fluid systems, it is prudent to check the condition of the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant, as these fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage, and standing vehicles can accelerate fluid degradation. A comprehensive fluid top-up and inspection of the service book for any missing or outdated service stamps would be recommended to ensure long-term reliability.