2012 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · OU12 AKP

The 2012 Ford S-Max has maintained a clean MOT record since its last test on 2025-05-12 at 195,117 miles, with no defects or advisories recorded across the past three annual tests. This suggests the vehicle has passed all statutory inspections without fail, though the single failure in May 2023—at just 188,419 miles—stands out as an anomaly. The absence of recurring faults in the most recent tests implies that any issues from 2023 were either rectified promptly or were non-recurring. However, the lack of advisories in later tests does not preclude underlying wear, particularly in high-mileage components like suspension bushes, coil springs, or brake calipers, which may not always trigger a fail but could degrade over time. The recorded mileage of 195,117 miles over 14 years—approximately 13,937 miles annually—is unusually high for a vehicle of this age, particularly given that the S-Max was rarely off-road. The gap between the 2023 failure and the subsequent pass (just 69 miles apart) suggests either a rapid repair or a minor oversight in the initial test. The consistent annual mileage increments (around 3,000–4,000 miles per year) indicate steady use rather than prolonged periods of neglect, but it also points to accelerated wear on consumables like tyres, brake pads, and suspension components. The absence of mileage jumps or long stagnation periods further suggests the vehicle was driven regularly rather than stored, which could imply either disciplined maintenance or deferred upkeep. Given the clean MOT history, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear bushes and coil springs, which are common failure points in high-mileage vehicles. The brakes—though never failed—should be checked for uneven wear, binding calipers, or corrosion on the discs, especially if the vehicle has been driven in wet conditions. Tyre condition is critical; failing twice on tread in the past would be expected, so verify remaining tread depth and uniformity, along with valve stems for leaks. Structural integrity should also be assessed, particularly around the wheel arches, sills, and subframe, where corrosion can compromise safety without immediately failing an MOT. The lack of advisories in recent tests does not guarantee these areas are sound, so visual inspection and functional checks are essential.