What should I check before buying a Ford S-MAX?
I am about to purchase a 2014 Ford S-Max 2.0 TDCi Powershift with 85,000 miles on the clock for my son (private seller). It appears to have been well looked after and had the PowerShift transmission serviced last year (fluid and filter change).
I need the car to last at least five years and my son, who will probably do about 15,000 miles per year. I am going to get the timing belt/tensioners/water pump/aux belt replaced for him.
Is there anything else, apart from regular servicing, that he should be doing to ensure a long life for the engine?
When was the car last serviced and MoT'd? It should, as a minimum, have an oil and filter change every 12 months or 12,000 miles (whichever comes first). The brake fluid should also be replaced every two years. I'd also recommend changing the fuel and air filters, as these can get missed on services and increase fuel consumption.
If the owner has replaced the transmission fluid then there is a high chance that the car has a very good service history (lots of private sellers skip important maintenance task). Apart from checking the tyres for signs of damage or cracking, it reads like you've found a very good car for your son.
Answered by Dan Powell on
