2002 FORD FIESTA1.4L PETROL

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance record shows a worsening trend regarding structural and mechanical component integrity. While the car passed its most recent test in April 2026 at 43,221 miles, the tester identified new defects that were not present in previous years. The appearance of corroded rear brake pipes covered in grease and a corroded near-side front coil spring indicates that the vehicle's age is beginning to impact the physical condition of the metal and rubber components, despite the low annual mileage. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 24-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 1,800 miles per year. Data from 2022 to 2026 shows consistent low usage, with the car covering only 1,156 miles in the last four years. However, this low mileage often correlates with the degradation of rubber parts rather than mechanical wear. This is evidenced by the perishing tyre in 2024 and the deteriorating steering rack gaiters noted in 2025, which likely suffered from time-based oxidation rather than distance driven. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the underside to assess the extent of the light corrosion noted in the April 2026 test. The presence of grease on the rear brake pipes is a specific concern as it can be used to hide significant thinning or corrosion of the metal lines. The corroded near-side front coil spring should be checked for fractures or scaling, as corroded springs are prone to sudden failure. Additionally, the steering rack gaiters require monitoring to ensure that grit does not enter the internal steering mechanism, which would lead to a premature and expensive steering rack failure.