2007 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · YL07 MBF

The vehicle shows a clear trend of deferred maintenance regarding suspension and braking over the last several years. In the most recent test in July 2025 at 164,188 miles, the car passed with multiple advisories that indicate ongoing mechanical wear. Specifically, both the nearside and offside rear suspension arm bushes were noted as worn, a recurring defect that has appeared in every test since July 2023 without any evidence of recent repair. The presence of a pitted offside front brake disc and thin rear pads in the same test suggests that braking components are only addressed when they reach a point of failure rather than on a preventative schedule. At 164,188 miles, this 19-year-old vehicle has averaged approximately 8,600 miles per year, which is consistent with typical usage for an MPV. The history reveals a period of relative cleanliness between 2021 and 2022, where no defects were recorded. However, since the 2022 test, the frequency of advisories has increased. The July 2022 failure at 136,865 miles due to exposed cords on a front tyre and insufficient tread highlights a pattern where basic safety consumables are neglected until the MOT tester forces a replacement, as seen in subsequent years. A buyer should focus their inspection on the rear suspension assembly, as the worn arm bushes have been flagged for three consecutive years. These components will likely affect handling and lead to uneven tyre wear if not replaced. The recurring advisories for tyres worn to the legal limit in 2024 and 2025 indicate that the current set may also require immediate attention. While the vehicle currently meets roadworthiness, the persistent nature of the suspension and brake issues suggests an owner who performs only the minimum work required to pass the test.