2017 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · PR17 SEE

The most recent MOT test on the 2017 Ford S-Max, conducted on 2026-02-23, resulted in a passing grade, though it was accompanied by multiple advisories that indicate ongoing wear issues requiring attention. The vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring defects, particularly around tyre wear and brake conditions, with no sustained periods of stability. The failures in 2025 and 2023 highlighted critical issues—such as exposed tyre cords and severely worn brake pads and discs—that suggest the owner has not addressed prior advisories promptly. While the latest test passed, the presence of persistent advisories on tyre wear and the fact that the vehicle failed on dangerous defects in previous years indicates that maintenance has not been consistently proactive. This trend raises concerns about underlying wear progression, particularly in high-wear areas like the tyres, brakes, and potentially the suspension or drivetrain, where cumulative stress from high mileage may be accelerating component failure. The recorded mileage of 124,841 miles for a vehicle aged nine years represents an exceptionally high annual usage rate of approximately 13,871 miles per year, which is far above the average for its class and age. Such rapid mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on consumables such as tyres, brake pads, and fluids, as well as structural components like suspension bushes, coil springs, and drivetrain seals. The absence of significant mileage gaps between MOT tests suggests the vehicle is in active, heavy use, which may explain the aggressive wear observed in the tyres and brakes. However, it also implies that the vehicle has not been subject to prolonged periods of static storage, which could otherwise exacerbate issues like corrosion from standing fluids or brake disc binding. The high mileage alone justifies a thorough inspection of wear progression, particularly in areas prone to rapid deterioration under heavy use. Given the recurring advisories and failures, the prospective buyer should prioritise a detailed mechanical inspection to confirm the severity of wear and identify any underlying issues that may have been overlooked. Start with the tyres: check for uneven wear patterns, exposed cords, or sidewall damage, as the previous MOTs noted significant edge wear and cord exposure. Listen for clunking noises from the suspension during cornering or bumps, which may indicate worn suspension bushes or coil springs. Inspect the brake system thoroughly, including the front discs for warping, binding calipers, or corrosion, and the rear brakes for excessive heat discolouration or glazing. On a test drive, pay close attention to brake pedal travel, pedal squareness, and the presence of any shuddering or pulsation, which could signal warped discs or warped brake pads. Additionally, inspect the exhaust system for leaks or excessive noise, as high mileage can lead to flex plate failures or catalytic converter degradation. For the brake system, which has shown critical wear in prior MOTs, the buyer should replace the front brake pads and discs as soon as possible, as the pads are below the legal minimum thickness and the discs are significantly worn. The exposed tyre cords and near-legal edge wear on the front tyres also warrant immediate replacement, as these conditions compromise grip and safety. Beyond immediate repairs, schedule a comprehensive fluid check, including the brake fluid, coolant, and differential/transmission fluids, as high mileage and heavy use can accelerate fluid degradation. Finally, verify that the vehicle’s service history includes recent checks of the suspension, drivetrain seals, and exhaust components, as these areas may also require attention. If the buyer is concerned about standing corrosion, consider a thorough inspection of the undercarriage, especially around the wheels, brakes, and exhaust, to check for rust or pitting that could compromise structural integrity.