2009 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · OV59 YVC

A continuous run of clean MOT passes, including the most recent test on 13 January 2026, defines the mechanical profile of this 17-year-old Ford S-Max. Across five recorded tests the vehicle has accumulated zero advisories and only a single prior failure entry dated 28 November 2022, which is paired with a same-day pass and carries no recorded defect categories, suggesting either a rectification on site or an administrative marker rather than a substantive mechanical issue. This is an unusually tidy record for a vehicle of this age, particularly given that S-Max chassis of this generation are commonly flagged for rear suspension arm corrosion, front subframe rust around the wheel arches, and binding rear calipers. The absence of any recorded corrosion advisories across consecutive winter tests is notable and points to either a structurally sound example or one that has been conscientiously treated, though it should still be physically inspected given the platform's known vulnerabilities. With 74,402 miles recorded against a 2009 first registration, this S-Max has averaged roughly 4,377 miles per year, which sits well below the typical UK annual accumulation of 7,000 to 9,000 miles. MOT test dates show consistent annual attendance between late 2022 and early 2026, with no prolonged absence from testing that would imply a multi-year lay-up, meaning the low figure is more likely the product of genuinely light use rather than dormant storage. Mechanically, low annual mileage on a vehicle of this age reduces wear on the clutch, DMF dual-mass flywheel, and the 2.0 TDCi powertrain internals, but it does place greater emphasis on the condition of rubber and polymer components that deteriorate with age irrespective of distance covered. Drive belts, coolant hoses, anti-roll bar bushes, and the timing chain tensioner guides on the diesel variants are all time-sensitive rather than mileage-sensitive, so any prospective purchase should be assessed against calendar age rather than odometer reading alone. Because the MOT history contains no recorded advisories, there is no specific defect pattern to interrogate, but the test drive itself becomes the primary diagnostic tool. Listen for clonks or thuds from the rear suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, which is characteristic of the known rear trailing arm bush failure on this platform, and check visually for any rust blooming along the rear axle mounting points and the inner wheel arches where the S-Max commonly shows structural corrosion even on otherwise clean cars. On the move, test for any pulling to one side under braking or a soft, spongy pedal, both of which can indicate corroded brake pipes or seized sliding pins within the calipers, and feel for vibration through the steering wheel that could point to warped front discs given the vehicle's age. Pay particular attention to a judder or hesitation through the clutch pedal around the bite point, as the dual-mass flywheel on the diesel S-Max is a known wear item that an MOT will not flag until it is already severely degraded. Finally, under-bonnet inspection should focus on oil leaks from the rocker cover gasket and the turbo oil return pipe on diesel variants, coolant condition and level, and the integrity of the radiator and intercooler hoses which harden with age. Check the condition of the tyres closely, as low mileage vehicles often present with original or aged rubber exhibiting sidewall cracking regardless of tread depth, and verify the production date stamps on the sidewall given that prolonged standing allows UV degradation to compromise the compound even when the car has seen little use. Ensure all warning lamps extinguish promptly after ignition, the air-conditioning produces cold output consistent with a recent regas, and the power-operated tailgate functions smoothly through its full travel, as electrical faults in the convenience systems are a recurring theme on this model. With no MOT-recorded defects to contradict a clean bill of health, the priority on inspection is verifying the platform-specific wear items that the test simply does not cover.