2014 Ford C-MAX 1.6L Petrol · OG12 SLS

Recurring issues with tyre degradation and suspension components define the recent mechanical profile of this Ford C-Max, with the latest test on 16 January 2026 showing a pass despite an advisory for a loose rear exhaust heat shield. The vehicle has experienced a recent period of instability in its roadworthiness, evidenced by a major failure in January 2025 due to a broken nearside rear anti-roll bar linkage, alongside multiple advisories regarding heavily perished and unevenly worn tyres. While the record shows a clean period in 2023, the subsequent return of advisories for shock absorber oil misting and tyre condition suggests a trend of wear-related items requiring attention. The vehicle has covered 105,252 miles over approximately twelve years, which equates to an average annual usage of roughly 8,771 miles. This mileage pattern is typical for a vehicle of this age and suggests consistent, moderate use rather than heavy commercial application or long periods of stationary storage. Mechanically, this level of accumulation means that components subject to regular cycling, such as suspension bushes, dampers, and braking systems, are likely to be approaching the middle or latter stages of their service life, which is consistent with the recorded advisories for brake pad wear and shock absorber misting. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the suspension and tyre condition during a physical inspection. The history of a broken anti-roll bar linkage and current advisories for oil misting on the offside rear shock absorber warrants a close look at the dampers. On a test drive, listen for any knocking or clunking sounds when traversing uneven surfaces or speed bumps, which could indicate worn suspension bushings or failing dampers. Furthermore, the repeated advisories for tyres that are cracking, perishing, or wearing unevenly suggest that wheel alignment or suspension geometry should be verified to ensure the vehicle does not pull to one side or cause premature tyre wear. Braking components also require scrutiny given the recorded history of thinning brake pads and pitted or scored discs. While the most recent tests passed, the previous advisories for offside rear pads being very close to the minimum specification indicate that the braking system is a known area of wear. During the test drive, check for any pedal judder or pulsation, which can be a symptom of warped or heavily scored discs, and listen for any squealing or grinding noises that might indicate pad depletion. Finally, the recent advisory regarding a loose rear exhaust heat shield should be checked to ensure it does not cause excessive vibration or noise under acceleration.