2010 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Petrol · SH10 LAA

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend indicates a shift toward deferred repairs regarding suspension and consumable components. The most recent test in April 2023 at 121,826 miles followed an immediate failure just two miles prior. This failure highlighted multiple issues including steering linkage ball joint play, worn tyres, and rear axle swivel bushes. While the vehicle passed the subsequent retest, the presence of these faults suggests that the owner only addressed defects once they threatened legal compliance rather than performing proactive preventative maintenance. At 121,826 miles over sixteen years, the S-Max has averaged approximately 7,600 miles per year, which is consistent with typical low-range family usage. The data shows a steady pattern of use between 2020 and 2023, with roughly 28,000 miles covered in that three-year window. However, there is a significant gap in the record as the last recorded MOT was over three years ago relative of the current date. This extended interval increases the risk of age-related degradation in rubber components and fluids regardless of the low annual mileage. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the front suspension and the rear axle. The history shows recurring issues with the steering linkage and the rear axle swivel bushes, which can lead to poor handling and accelerated uneven tyre wear if not monitored. The 2021 advisory regarding corrosion on the rear vehicle structure requires a close look at the underbody arches and sills to ensure that the rust has not progressed beyond the levels previously noted. Given the time elapsed since the last test, the state of the tyres, wiper blades, and anti-roll bar linkages should also be verified, as these are common points of failure on this aging Ford model.