2012 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · TU61 SSU

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history indicates a shift toward reactive rather than preventative care. While the most recent test in January 2026 at 129,964 miles identified a corroded offside rear coil spring, the vehicle passed despite this defect. The trend shows a recent lapse in early 2025 when the car failed due to worn rear brake components and a damaged tyre, suggesting that components are only addressed once they reach a failure threshold. The mileage pattern remains consistent with a 14-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 9,300 miles per year. There was a notable period of 15,391 miles covered between March 2024 and January 2025, followed by another 9,691 miles recorded between January 2025 and January 2026. This steady accumulation suggests the car is used regularly for longer journeys, though the total mileage of nearly 130,000 miles places significant stress on the drivetrain and suspension components typical of an S-Max. A prospective buyer must conduct a close inspection of the rear suspension assembly and braking system. The recurring pitting and scoring of the rear brake discs noted in early 2025 indicate high moisture exposure or prolonged use, which can lead to binding calipers. Furthermore, the corroded coil spring flagged in the January 2026 test is a structural concern that can lead to sudden failure. The inspector should check for further rust around the rear mounting points and ensure that the corrosion on the spring has not progressed beyond the surface level.