2017 Ford S-MAX 2.0L Diesel · YP67 ABU

The 2017 Ford S-Max’s latest MOT test on 2026-04-07 resulted in a clean pass, though it included a single advisory regarding offside rear brake pads wearing thin, which is a routine but persistent issue across three consecutive MOTs since 2023. While the vehicle has not failed in the past four years, the recurring advisories on brake pad and disc wear—particularly the rear brake discs being scored but not critically weakened—suggest a developing maintenance concern. The front brake discs also showed close-to-legal wear in 2025, indicating that brake system attention is warranted, though the latest test did not flag any critical failures. The absence of failures in the intervening years suggests a stable maintenance trend, but the pattern of wear advisories demands proactive intervention to prevent potential brake performance degradation or premature failure, especially given the vehicle’s age and accumulated mileage. The recorded mileage of 89,816 miles for a nine-year-old S-Max represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 9,980 miles per year, which aligns with typical driving patterns for this model class. The mileage distribution does not exhibit extreme gaps or rapid accumulation, suggesting consistent but not particularly high demand on components like the suspension, drivetrain, and wear items. However, the combination of moderate mileage and age means that certain consumables and wear parts may have reached or neared their operational limits, particularly in the braking system. The rear tyres, for instance, have shown wear patterns consistent with edge wear, which can indicate alignment or camber issues, and the prior failed MOT in 2021 highlighted a severe tyre cut that necessitated replacement. This reinforces the need for a thorough inspection of tyre condition and alignment to mitigate further wear or safety risks. Given the recurring brake advisories and the vehicle’s age, the prospective buyer should prioritise a detailed inspection of the braking system. Check the rear brake pads for even wear and ensure the discs are free from excessive pitting or scoring, which could compromise stopping performance. Listen for any abnormal brake pedal feel—such as sponginess, vibration, or binding—during a test drive, as these symptoms may indicate warped discs, contaminated brake fluid, or binding calipers. The offside rear brake pads being thin warrant immediate attention, with potential replacement recommended if they are below the minimum legal thickness of 1.5 millimetres. Additionally, verify that all brake hoses and lines are free from cracks or leaks, and inspect the brake fluid level and condition, as contamination or low fluid can exacerbate pad wear and reduce braking efficiency. Beyond the brakes, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural and fluid-based components. Given the oil leak advisory from 2023, check under the vehicle for any persistent oil stains or drips, particularly around the valve cover, oil pan, or engine bay seals, which could indicate a failing oil seal or gasket. Ensure the engine oil level is correct and top up if necessary, and consider having the oil and filter serviced if the vehicle has not been serviced in over two years, as oil degradation from standing can accelerate engine wear. Inspect the suspension for signs of excessive play or unusual noises—such as clunks or rattles—when driving over bumps, which may indicate worn suspension bushes, broken coil springs, or damaged control arms. Lastly, examine the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even at moderate mileages due to prolonged exposure to UV light and temperature fluctuations, and ensure the tread depth meets or exceeds the legal minimum of 1.6 millimetres. A thorough check of the 12V battery health, including voltage readings and corrosion on terminals, is also advisable, as standing vehicles can lead to battery discharge or internal corrosion over time.