2011 Ford C-MAX 1.6L Diesel · SW61 ACU

The vehicle presents a concerning roadworthiness profile with a maintenance trend that is worsening regarding structural and mechanical integrity. While it passed its most recent test in December 2025 at 117,323 miles, the result revealed play in both the nearside and offside steering rack inner joints. This follows a significant failure in November 2024 where the vehicle exhibited critical structural issues. The transition from major structural failure to steering component wear suggests a reactive rather than proactive approach to maintenance. At 15 years old, the recorded 117,323 miles average to approximately 7,800 miles per year, which is consistent with typical usage for a family MPV. However, the data shows a recent period of high activity between December 2023 and November 2024, where the car covered 10,000 miles in under eleven months. This burst of mileage coincided with a series of mechanical failures, including brake system issues and tyre wear. The gap between tests remains consistent, but the frequency of defects in recent intervals indicates accelerated wear on the aging chassis and suspension components. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the front subframe, as the November 2024 failure flagged excessive corrosion and inadequate repairs in a structural mounting area. This is a high-risk area that requires physical verification to ensure the rust has not progressed beyond repair. Furthermore, the brake system shows a recurring history of fluctuating and binding calipers along with pitted discs noted between 2022 and 2024. The recent report of steering rack inner joint play indicates that the steering geometry is nearing the end of its life, which will require immediate attention to maintain safety and handling precision.