2016 Ford C-MAX 1.5L Diesel · PN66 AZP

A clear pattern of front‑steering wear runs through the MOT history, with advisories on both nearside and offside upper steering mounts in 2025 and an earlier note of offside rack inner‑joint play in 2024, culminating in a 2025 failure for exhaust emissions exceeding the manufacturer’s limit. The vehicle has otherwise passed every test, indicating that no other systems have triggered a failure, but the steering and emissions issues dominate the mechanical narrative. At 113,169 miles the car averages just over 11 000 miles per year, a mileage rate that sits squarely within normal usage for a ten‑year‑old family hatchback. There are no significant gaps in the MOT chronology, suggesting the odometer reading is reliable and the car has been driven consistently rather than stored for long periods. This level of mileage will have naturally advanced wear on consumables such as tyres, brake pads, clutch (if manual) and the drivetrain, while the recorded steering advisories point to localized component fatigue that may be accelerated by the cumulative distance. When you inspect the steering, pay close attention to any looseness or vibration when the wheel is turned at low speed, a knocking or clunking sound over bumps, and a tendency for the wheel to wander under steady pressure. Feel for uneven resistance between the nearside and offside columns, and test for excessive play by holding the wheel at the 9 and 3 o’clock positions and applying gentle force. A thorough visual check of the upper steering mounts, rack bushings and inner joints for corrosion, cracked rubber or oil seepage will help gauge whether the advisories are early warnings or symptoms of imminent failure. Replacement of the mounts or rack bushings is a relatively straightforward repair, but the cost can rise if the rack itself needs refurbishment. The emissions failure suggests the engine is running rich, the catalytic converter may be deteriorating, or a sensor such as the oxygen or lambda unit is faulty. On a test drive listen for a rough idle, hesitation on acceleration, or a noticeable loss of power at higher revs, and watch the exhaust for unusual colour or excessive smoke. A pre‑purchase diagnostic scan should confirm the exact fault code, and a visual inspection of the exhaust system for rusted hangers, cracked pipes or a damaged muffler is advisable. Addressing the emissions issue before registration renewal will be essential, and budgeting for potential exhaust or engine‑management component replacement should be factored into the purchase decision.