2016 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · RX16 OSA

Persistent tyre wear issues and electrical faults define the mechanical history of this 2016 Ford S-Max, culminating in a test on 28 October 2025 where it initially failed before passing later the same day. The failure noted a malfunctioning tyre pressure monitoring system and an inoperative nearside side repeater, alongside ongoing advisories for tyres worn close to the legal limit and a nail embedded in the offside rear tyre. Reviewing the overall test trajectory reveals a recurring vulnerability in lighting and rubber components, evidenced by multiple tyre advisories across consecutive years, notably in November 2024 where three tyres were recorded as worn below the legal limit on their inner edges alongside structural cracking, alongside minor lighting defects recorded in 2023 and 2020. With 86,328 miles recorded across its ten-year lifespan, the vehicle has accumulated roughly 8,633 miles per year, representing a typical UK usage pattern that avoids the severe mechanical strain of high-mileage fleet work or the battery and fuel system complications often associated with extended periods of inactivity. This consistent annual mileage means standard wear and tear will be distributed across major mechanical assemblies like the transmission, suspension, and steering racks, though it does not exempt the vehicle from the localized consumable neglect highlighted in the MOT records. During the pre-purchase inspection and test drive, immediate attention must be directed toward checking the geometry and suspension alignment, as the historical pattern of inner-edge tyre wear on both front and rear axles suggests potential tracking misalignment, worn suspension bushes, or compromised control arm mountings that could cause the vehicle to wander or tramline on uneven road surfaces. Pay close attention to the suspension geometry while driving over potholes or speed humps, listening for any clunks, knocks, or excessive play that would indicate worn anti-roll bar links or wishbone bushes, and verify that the newly rectified tyre pressure monitoring system remains stable without throwing dashboard fault codes. Finally, verify all exterior lighting functions thoroughly before completing the purchase, specifically inspecting the nearside side repeater and registration plate lamp assemblies that have previously triggered MOT failures and minor notices. Inspect the replacement tyres fitted to ensure matching quality across the axle and check the inner shoulders manually if possible to confirm that previous alignment or camber issues have been properly corrected, preventing premature shoulder scrub and ensuring safe handling capabilities.