2010 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · YP10 PCZ

The most recent DVSA examination on 24 February 2026 resulted in a PASS, but with five advisory items recorded, which indicates that while the vehicle remains roadworthy, several wear-related components are approaching the end of their useful service life. Reviewing the trajectory across the recorded tests, the overall maintenance trend is one of gradual, predictable deterioration rather than acute failure. The 2024 test was notably clean with only a single brake disc advisory, whereas the 2023 and 2026 tests both flagged the rear trailing arm bushes, front brake discs, and rear tyres, suggesting these are recurring wear points on this particular vehicle. The presence of identical advisories across separate test cycles confirms that components such as the rear suspension bushes and front brake discs have been deteriorating progressively rather than being addressed and renewed. With 159,553 miles accumulated over approximately 16 years, this S-MAX averages around 9,972 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a family MPV of its age and indicates consistent use rather than prolonged standing. This kind of mileage profile generally means that mechanical consumables such as clutches, timing chains, turbochargers (if applicable to the specific variant), and dual-mass flywheels have been worked, but no single component has likely been catastrophically overstressed. There are no obvious mileage gaps or anomalies in the recorded history, suggesting the odometer reading is continuous and plausible. The relatively high absolute mileage does, however, place increased scrutiny on drivetrain and engine peripherals that are sensitive to accumulated running hours. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the recurring advisories on the rear trailing arm bushes, as these items have been flagged consistently over multiple test cycles and on a 16-year-old vehicle are highly likely to require renewal imminently. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises emanating from the rear suspension over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, and check for uneven tyre wear across the rear axle, which often accompanies worn trailing arm bushes. The front brake discs were also flagged in both 2023 and 2026 for pitting and scoring on their inner faces; this typically manifests as brake shudder or vibration through the steering wheel under firm application, and a thorough road test should include several progressive stops from higher speed to feel for any pulsing or pedal feedback. The 2026 advisory noting the offside rear tyre worn down to 2mm suggests replacement was overdue at the time of test, so verify that all four tyres currently have adequate tread and are of matching specification, particularly as the 2025 test also noted uneven wear on both front tyres. Beyond the specific advisories, the age and mileage profile of the vehicle warrant several time-based inspections that may not be evident from MOT data alone. The 2023 advisory regarding corroded rear coil springs is a common finding on vehicles of this era operating in the UK climate, and a careful visual inspection underneath should be carried out for any structural or subframe corrosion, paying special attention to suspension mounting points and the exhaust heat shield, which was noted as insecure in 2025. Brake fluid, coolant, and automatic transmission fluid (if applicable) degrade with calendar age regardless of mileage and should be checked for service history stamps confirming renewal within the recommended intervals. The 12V battery health should also be verified, as stop-start vehicles or those with frequent short journeys are prone to premature battery failure. Finally, the windscreen damage flagged as a minor in 2023 should be inspected to ensure it has not propagated, and the registration plate lamps, which have failed twice, should be confirmed as fully operational at the point of purchase.