2007 Ford C-MAX 1.8L Petrol · OY57 ABF

The vehicle presents a worsening maintenance trend characterized by increasing structural and mechanical degradation. While the September 2025 test at 96,178 miles resulted in a pass, the advisory list indicates significant ongoing issues. The tester flagged corrosion on rear suspension component mountings and general rear suspension corrosion, alongside worn front lower suspension arm bushes. These issues, combined with pitted rear brake discs and a non-excessive oil leak, suggest the vehicle is entering a phase of more intensive component replacement. The mileage pattern shows a consistent, low-use profile for a nineteen-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 5,000 miles per year. Between July 2021 and September 2024, the vehicle covered roughly 17,800 miles, indicating steady but light usage. However, the record shows a history of reactive maintenance rather than preventative care. The vehicle frequently fails on basic consumables such as tyres and lamps, and the presence of blue smoke during acceleration in the September 2024 test at 91,233 miles suggests potential engine wear or oil consumption issues that have not been explicitly resolved in subsequent tests. A prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the underside to assess the extent of the reported corrosion. The recurring issues with rear coil springs and suspension mountings since 2017 indicate that structural integrity is a long-term concern for this chassis. The presence of an oil leak and the previous report of blue smoke necessitate a careful check of the engine's health and the cleanliness of the engine bay to determine if the leak is minor or indicative of a more serious seal or gasket failure. Mechanical attention must also be directed toward the braking system and drivetrain. The rear brake discs have been flagged as pitted or scored in both 2024 and 2025, and the history of binding brakes and fluctuating service brakes suggests the calipers or hydraulics may require investigation. Additionally, the split CV boots noted in the 2024 test at 91,233 miles mean the drive shafts should be checked for play or damage. The combination of suspension wear and advancing corrosion suggests that while the car is currently roadworthy, significant expenditure on chassis and suspension components is likely imminent.