2009 Ford Cmax 1.8L Petrol · SD58 RXT

The roadworthiness of this vehicle is currently concerning due to a worsening trend in mechanical neglect. The most recent test on 11 December 2023 at 84,000 miles resulted in a comprehensive failure involving multiple critical safety and emissions-related defects. While the vehicle passed in early 2023, the subsequent failure just eleven months later indicates a rapid decline in maintenance standards or a lack of preventative care. Given that no MOT has been recorded for over two years, the vehicle's current road status is unverified and likely non-compliant. The vehicle exhibits a low mileage profile, covering only 84,000 miles over 17 years, averaging roughly 5,000 miles annually. However, this low usage has not translated into good mechanical condition. Between January 2022 and December 2023, the car covered just 3,813 miles yet suffered from a significant battery of mechanical failures. This pattern suggests the vehicle may spend long periods sitting stationary, which often leads to the degradation of rubber components and accelerated corrosion rather than standard wear-related tear. A buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the structural integrity regarding the front wings and the rear suspension mounting areas. The 2023 test flagged corrosion in these areas which, while not yet a structural sill failure, represents the early stages of significant rot. The history also shows a recurring issue with braking components, with weakened front brake discs noted in both 2018 and 2022. The suspension system appears to be a persistent failure point for this example, evidenced by fractured coil springs, worn suspension arm bushes, and a broken anti-roll bar linkage. Engine health requires immediate scrutiny as the 2023 failure recorded excessive dense blue smoke and multiple exhaust leaks, which point toward internal engine wear or a significant failure in the exhaust manifold. The buyer should also verify the condition of the wheel bearings, which were previously noted as rough and noisy. Given the repeated failures for basic items like tyre tread depth and light bulbs, the record implies a history of only addressing faults when forced by the MOT tester.