2010 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · OV60 WHM

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2010 Ford S-Max was conducted on 7 January 2026 and resulted in a pass, although it should be noted that an earlier attempt on the same day initially failed due to an insufficient washer fluid supply, which was addressed before the pass certificate was issued. The overall maintenance trend over the documented test history can be considered broadly stable, as the vehicle has passed each subsequent test without major categorised defects. However, a closer inspection of advisories reveals a progressive accumulation of minor concerns that have become more frequent in recent years, particularly relating to underbody corrosion and rear tyre wear. The recurrence of general underbody corrosion across multiple tests since at least 2022 indicates a slow but steady worsening of structural surface oxidation, which is common for a vehicle of this age exposed to British winter road conditions. The presence of an oil leak advisory on the latest test, whilst not excessive at present, is a development worth monitoring as such leaks have a tendency to escalate and may indicate ageing seals or gaskets that will eventually require attention. In terms of recorded mileage, this S-Max has covered 175,450 miles over approximately sixteen years, equating to a typical annual usage of around 10,966 miles per year. This is broadly in line with average mileage expectations for a family MPV of this vintage and suggests the vehicle has been in consistent service rather than left standing for prolonged periods. Such a usage pattern is generally favourable for mechanical longevity, as regular driving helps prevent issues associated with moisture build-up in the engine and gearbox, brake caliper seizure, and tyre flat-spotting. The mileage accumulation appears continuous without any dramatic gaps in testing that might indicate extended periods of inactivity, and the cumulative figure, whilst high, is not unreasonable for a diesel or petrol Ford S-Max of this generation, provided that key service items such as cambelts, clutches, and automatic transmission fluid changes have been addressed at appropriate intervals. For a prospective buyer, the recurring advisories warrant careful physical inspection and a targeted test drive. The repeated notation of nearside rear tyre wear close to the legal limit and worn on the inner edge across multiple tests suggests a possible tracking misalignment, worn suspension components such as wishbone bushes, ball joints, or anti-roll bar drop links, or potentially worn rear shock absorbers. On a test drive, listen for any clonking noises from the rear suspension over uneven surfaces, and pay attention to the vehicle's behaviour during direction changes and over bumps, as any vagueness or instability could indicate compromised damping. The advisories on front brake disc wear and pitting from earlier tests should prompt an inspection of current brake disc condition, as pitted discs will eventually require machining or replacement and may produce brake shudder or vibration under heavy application. The noted oil leak, although minor, should be traced to its source before purchase, with common culprits on this model including the sump gasket, cam cover gasket, and turbo oil feed lines if fitted with the diesel engine. Beyond the recorded advisories, additional practical checks are essential given the vehicle's age and mileage. The underbody should be examined on a ramp for any structural corrosion beyond surface oxidation, with particular attention paid to suspension mounting points, sill integrity, and brake and fuel line security, as corrosion in these areas can become a failure item at future tests. Tyres should be scrutinised for age-related perishing and sidewall cracking regardless of tread depth, as tyres older than five or six years can deteriorate from UV exposure even on lightly used vehicles. The twelve-volt battery should be load-tested, as battery failure is a common issue on older vehicles and can cause a range of electrical anomalies. Brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid should be checked for age-related degradation and replaced in line with manufacturer schedules, as these are time-based services rather than mileage-based. Finally, verify the service book history to ensure that major items such as the timing belt or chain, water pump, and any dual-mass flywheel replacements have been carried out at the correct intervals, as overlooking these on a high-mileage S-Max could lead to substantial repair costs.