2014 Ford S-MAX Zetec Tdci 1.6L Diesel · SP14 LLK

The most recent MOT test on 2025-10-01 confirms the vehicle passed without defects at 104,567 miles, though it was previously failed on 2025-08-24 at 103,843 miles—a gap of just 724 miles. This suggests a late-stage correction rather than a consistent maintenance routine, as the two most recent tests occurred within a single month. The pattern of passing and failing within a short span implies either a rushed repair or an oversight in pre-test preparation, rather than a stable or improving trend. The absence of recorded defects in any test does not preclude underlying issues, particularly given the vehicle’s age and mileage, where wear on suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake calipers often escalates without visible MOT failures. The mileage progression shows a steady accumulation of approximately 8,700 miles annually, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. There are no prolonged periods of inactivity or unusually rapid mileage jumps, though the gap between the 2023 and 2022 tests—nearly seven months—may indicate either seasonal storage or reduced usage. The most concerning interval is the 2025 failure and subsequent pass, where the vehicle covered 724 miles between tests, a distance that could easily expose latent faults in suspension or braking systems if not properly addressed. Given the lack of recorded defects, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of suspension components, particularly the rear bushes and coil springs, which often degrade silently before causing MOT failures. The binding calipers or uneven brake disc wear, if present, would typically manifest as a minor advisory or defect, so checking for uneven tyre wear or a spongy pedal could indicate hidden brake issues. Structural integrity—especially around the sills, wheel arches, and subframe—should also be scrutinised for corrosion, as this is a common failure point in vehicles of this age and mileage. The absence of advisories in past tests does not rule out these risks entirely, so visual and functional checks are essential.