2011 Ford Coleman Milne 4.0L Petrol · V321 KMC

A pattern of emerging age-related wear characterizes this vehicle, following several years of clean test records. While the most recent inspection on 27 March 2026 resulted in a pass with only a minor advisory for a discoloured rear indicator, the preceding 2025 test flagged a significant cluster of suspension and braking defects. This shift suggests the vehicle is now reaching a stage where multiple chassis and consumable components are degrading simultaneously after a long period of stability. The recorded mileage of 104,478 miles is consistent with the vehicle's fifteen-year age, averaging approximately 6,965 miles per year. This steady rate of accumulation indicates regular use rather than prolonged periods of inactivity or excessive long-distance hauling. Mechanically, this level of usage typically results in predictable wear across the drivetrain and suspension systems, which aligns with the specific advisories noted in the recent history. Particular attention must be paid to the suspension and braking systems based on the 2025 advisories. The recorded corrosion on both rear coil springs and the slight play in the offside front upper suspension arm ball joint are critical points of inspection. During a test drive, listen for knocking or clunking sounds when traversing uneven road surfaces or during low-speed manoeuvres, as these are common symptoms of worn ball joints and fatigued springs. The braking system also requires verification, as both front and rear pads were flagged as wearing thin in March 2025. Check for any audible grinding or a reduction in pedal firmness during braking. Additionally, the 2022 record of front tyres worn on the edges suggests a need to inspect the current tyre tread for uneven wear patterns, which can be an indicator of underlying suspension geometry issues or misalignment.