2017 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · BC66 AAO

Suspension and steering component wear is the emerging mechanical theme for this vehicle, as evidenced by the most recent MOT pass on 14 October 2025 which flagged multiple advisories. While the vehicle has maintained a relatively consistent pass record since 2022, the presence of wear in the rear axle swivel pins and bushes on both sides, alongside play in the offside front outer track rod end, indicates that the steering and suspension linkages are beginning to degrade. This follows a previous failure in February 2022 involving fractured rear coil springs and insufficient brake pad thickness, suggesting that while the vehicle is currently roadworthy, the chassis and suspension components are entering a phase of increased wear. The recorded mileage of 70,957 miles over approximately nine years represents an average annual accumulation of roughly 7,884 miles. This usage pattern is consistent with typical UK driving profiles for a small hatchback of this age. Mechanically, this level of mileage suggests that the vehicle has not been subjected to extreme high-speed motorway endurance, nor has it suffered from the potential issues associated with excessive periods of stationary use. However, the mileage is sufficient to have necessitated the replacement of consumables such as brake pads and coil springs, both of which have been documented in the MOT history. During a test drive, particular attention should be paid to the handling and auditory feedback from the underside of the car. The advisory regarding the rear axle swivel pins and bushes may manifest as knocking or thudding noises when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps. Furthermore, the slight play in the offside front track rod end could result in a vague steering feel or a subtle pull to one side. It is advisable to test the steering response at varying speeds to determine if the play in the joint is perceptible through the steering wheel or if it affects the vehicle's tracking. Beyond the steering and suspension, the history of fractured coil springs and worn tyres indicates that the vehicle's running gear requires close inspection. Although no current advisories are listed for tyres, the previous records of edge wear should be noted. A thorough visual inspection of the suspension mounting points and the condition of the remaining bushes is recommended to ensure that the wear noted in the 2025 test does not indicate a broader pattern of component fatigue. Checking for any sudden changes in steering weight or unexpected vibrations through the floorpan will be essential to assessing the current state of the axle and steering linkages.