2012 Ford S-MAX Titan Xsport Tdci 2.0L Diesel · RHZ 5745

Four successive MOT passes with no advisories or failures recorded across the documented test history paint a picture of consistent roadworthiness for this 2012 Ford S-MAX. The most recent examination on 17 January 2026 returned a clean pass, and prior tests in January 2025, November 2023, and June 2022 produced identical defect-free outcomes. This unbroken sequence of straightforward passes, spanning nearly four years of recorded testing, demonstrates that the vehicle has not developed any of the wear-related issues that typically surface at this age and mileage band, such as corroded brake lines, worn suspension components, or steering rack deterioration. While the absence of recorded advisories does not guarantee the car is mechanically perfect, it strongly suggests that previous testers found no components approaching the minimum legal thresholds and no items requiring monitoring between annual tests. With 124,111 miles accumulated over roughly fourteen years, this S-MAX averages approximately 8,865 miles annually, which sits comfortably within the typical usage bracket for a vehicle of this vintage. There is a noticeable gap between the November 2023 test and the January 2025 test, indicating either a change in testing schedule or a period where the vehicle may not have been presented for examination. Despite that interval, the mileage accumulation appears steady rather than showing any sudden spikes that might suggest towing, commercial use, or prolonged motorway driving followed by an idle spell. At this odometer reading, mechanical expectations shift toward consumable replacement rather than major structural concerns, meaning routine service items such as timing belt intervals, dual-mass flywheel wear, and turbocharger servicing on the TDCi diesel become the primary considerations rather than catastrophic component failures. For a prospective buyer arranging a viewing, particular attention should be directed toward the areas that commonly affect high-mileage S-MAX models but which have not yet surfaced on the MOT record, meaning any deterioration would be in its early stages. On a test drive, listen carefully for clonking or knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, which can indicate worn lower wishbone bushes, anti-roll bar drop links, or top mount bearings beginning to fail. The power steering system should be evaluated for any whining, juddering, or excessive play at the wheel, as S-MAX steering racks are known to develop issues around this mileage. Apply the brakes firmly at low speed to check for any pulling to one side, which would suggest a binding caliper, and feel for vibration through the brake pedal under harder stops, pointing toward warped front discs. Under the bonnet, the 2.0 TDCi diesel warrants a thorough inspection for any signs of oil leakage from the rocker cover gasket, turbocharger oil feed lines, and the lower sump area, as well as checking coolant hoses for hardening or weeping at their joints. During the test drive, observe the gearbox behaviour carefully, paying attention to any hesitation, harsh engagement, or slipping, particularly in higher gears where dual-mass flywheel wear typically becomes apparent through a pronounced vibration at idle when the clutch is released. Listen for any auxiliary drive belt squeal on cold start, and monitor the exhaust for excessive smoke under acceleration, which could indicate turbo or injector wear. Finally, inspect the underside of the vehicle for any surface corrosion starting to form on the subframe, brake lines, and rear suspension arms, as although no such issues have yet been flagged, the vehicle is now at an age where proactive inspection becomes worthwhile before any future MOT identifies them.