2015 Ford C-MAX 1.6L Diesel · YA64 JCZ

The latest MOT test on the 2015 Ford C-Max recorded a passing outcome on 2026-08-04, though it followed a failed inspection just two weeks prior, where major issues with the horn and offside rear parking brake were identified alongside persistent suspension advisories. This pattern indicates a recurring but not worsening maintenance trend, with the vehicle’s mechanical condition stabilising post-failure, though the suspension and braking systems remain critical areas of concern. The advisories on worn suspension arm bushes—both front and rear—suggest progressive wear that has not yet reached a level requiring immediate replacement but warrants close monitoring, as excessive movement in these components could lead to misalignment, uneven tyre wear, or even structural fatigue over time. The absence of further failures in the intervening period suggests the vehicle has been addressed promptly, but the buyer should be aware that these advisories are not insignificant and may require attention before they escalate. The recorded mileage of 102,360 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 11 years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of around 9,305 miles per annum, which is typical for a car of this age and class. However, the presence of a major failure in 2022—where brake pads and discs were dangerously worn below legal limits—suggests either aggressive or prolonged braking use, which can accelerate wear on these components. The gaps in the MOT history, particularly the two consecutive clean passes in 2023 and 2024, indicate periods of lower or stationary usage, which could have allowed some consumables and fluids to degrade over time. The rear tyres failing in 2024 with inner edge wear and cracking are particularly concerning, as such conditions often result from underinflation, excessive load, or prolonged standing, all of which can accelerate tyre degradation and compromise road grip. For the prospective buyer, the most urgent priorities are the suspension advisories and the history of severe brake wear. Inspect the suspension system thoroughly, focusing on the lower control arms and their bushings—listen for unusual clunking or rattling when the vehicle is driven over bumps, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns that may indicate misalignment or binding in the steering or suspension. The brake system requires immediate attention; test drive the car to listen for any grinding noises during braking, which could indicate metal-to-metal contact between pads and discs. Inspect the brake discs for warping, scoring, or excessive thickness loss, and verify that the parking brake operates smoothly on both sides, particularly the offside rear, which failed the MOT. Additionally, replace the rear tyres immediately due to the critical cracking and edge wear, as these conditions can compromise safety and lead to sudden failure. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle, paying particular attention to the following areas: check the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which can occur even with low mileage if the tyres have been stored or used in extreme conditions; inspect the 12V battery and associated wiring for corrosion or loose connections, especially given the horn failure history; verify that all fluids—oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid—are at the correct levels and show no signs of contamination or degradation, as standing fluids can become sludge over time; and ensure that the service history is up to date, particularly for fluid servicing intervals, which are critical for a vehicle of this age. Finally, consider a professional inspection of the exhaust system and emissions compliance, as the 2015 C-Max may be subject to stricter Euro emissions standards, and any catalytic converter or sensor issues could affect both performance and future MOT approvals.