2009 Ford S-MAX 2.2L Diesel · RA59 RPY

The 2009 Ford S-Max presents a stable roadworthiness record over the past three years, with both the March 2022 and June 2023 MOT tests passing without any defects or advisories at mileages of 161,075 and 171,209 respectively. This clean history suggests the vehicle has been maintained to a standard that meets all DVSA requirements for emissions, brakes, lights, and structural integrity at these intervals. The absence of recurring advisories or failures indicates no obvious neglect in critical areas such as suspension components, brake binding, or exhaust emissions. However, the gap of nearly 15 months between tests—well beyond the 12-month legal limit—raises questions about whether the vehicle has been driven consistently or if the MOT has been deliberately delayed. The mileage accumulation of 10,134 miles between March 2022 and June 2023 aligns closely with the vehicle’s average annual usage of around 10,071 miles, suggesting typical light-to-moderate use for its age. The most recent MOT at 171,209 miles was conducted just over three years ago, meaning the vehicle is now approaching its next scheduled test. Given the car’s age and the fact that it has not exceeded 171,000 miles, a buyer should verify whether the current owner has maintained the vehicle beyond the MOT expiry date, as this could mask deferred maintenance. The lack of mileage spikes or drops also implies no extreme driving patterns, though this does not preclude wear on high-stress components like coil springs or wheel bearings over time. For a prospective buyer, the primary focus should be on components not routinely checked during an MOT but critical to long-term reliability. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, a thorough inspection of the suspension—particularly the front lower arms, track rod ends, and coil springs—is essential, as these often degrade without immediate MOT implications. The brake system, including caliper condition, pad thickness, and disc wear, should be checked for uneven wear or corrosion, especially if the vehicle has been left stationary for extended periods. Structural integrity, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and subframe mounts, should be scrutinised for signs of corrosion or fatigue, as these can compromise safety without being flagged in a basic MOT. Additionally, the exhaust system’s condition—looking for leaks, rust, or broken mounts—should be verified, as emissions compliance was not flagged but could indicate underlying issues.