2013 Ford Grand C-MAX 1.6L Diesel · WD13 GFG

Significant steering and braking component issues define the mechanical profile of this Ford Grand C-Max, with recent testing revealing a history of structural and safety-critical failures. The most recent inspection on 13 January 2026 resulted in a pass, but only after a failure caused by a dangerous tyre bulge on the offside front. This follows a concerning 2025 failure involving seriously weakened brake discs at both the front and rear, alongside a windscreen washer malfunction. While the vehicle has cleared its latest tests, the recurring nature of advisories regarding steering rack components and brake wear suggests a pattern of mechanical degradation that requires close monitoring. The vehicle has covered 110,017 miles over its thirteen-year lifespan, averaging approximately 8,463 miles per year. This represents a typical usage pattern for a family vehicle of this age, suggesting that components have been subjected to regular, consistent wear rather than the stresses of high-speed motorway cruising or the potential deterioration associated with long periods of inactivity. This steady accumulation of mileage means that while the drivetrain may be well-used, the wear on consumables such as suspension bushes, brake discs, and tyres is consistent with the vehicle's age and should be assessed as standard wear-and-tear rather than extreme abuse. Prospective buyers should pay particular attention to the steering and suspension systems due to the recorded play in the offside front steering rack inner joints. During a test drive, listen for any knocking, clicking, or clunking noises when turning the steering wheel at low speeds or when driving over uneven road surfaces. Any sensation of looseness or vagueness in the steering response could indicate that the rack or its associated joints require replacement. Additionally, the previous failure regarding weakened brake discs necessitates a thorough check of the current braking performance. Listen for grinding noises during deceleration and feel for any pedal judder or vibrations through the footwell, which could indicate uneven disc wear or binding calipers. The structural integrity of the subframe should also be a priority, given the 2023 advisory regarding corrosion. While the record indicates the corrosion was not seriously weakened at that time, it is a progressive issue that warrants a visual inspection of the underside for significant scale or thinning metal. Furthermore, the recent advisory regarding a deteriorated rear registration plate and the presence of child seats obstructing full inspections suggests that some areas of the vehicle may not have been fully accessible for detailed scrutiny during previous tests. Ensure that all lighting and visibility components, including the windscreen washer system which failed in 2025, are fully operational before proceeding.