2021 Ford Puma ST-Line X Mhev 1.0L Petrol · BP21 AFJ

The 2026 MOT test for the Ford Puma ST-Line X MHEV recorded a passing result with two advisories—both related to tyre conditions. The previous MOTs in 2024 and 2025 also yielded clean passes, indicating a stable maintenance record with no critical failures or recurring severe issues. However, the presence of consistent tyre advisories, particularly around wear and perishing, suggests that while the vehicle has maintained roadworthiness, the tyres are approaching or have already reached their operational limits, warranting closer attention to their condition and replacement planning. The recorded mileage of 25,360 miles for a vehicle aged five years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 5,072 miles per annum. Such mileage is unusual for a modern, high-performance vehicle of this class, which often accumulates significantly more miles, particularly if driven in mixed or heavy traffic conditions. The low mileage could imply periods of prolonged standing, reduced operational use, or a more leisurely driving profile, but it does not necessarily mitigate wear risks on consumables like brakes, suspension components, or fluids that degrade over time regardless of mileage. The absence of higher mileage-related advisories in the MOT history suggests that wear from usage has not yet manifested in critical failures, but the vehicle’s age and potential idle exposure may still contribute to hidden issues such as corrosion or fluid degradation. For the prospective buyer, the most immediate inspection focus should be on the tyres, given the recurring advisories. The nearside and offside rear tyres show signs of cracking or perishing, which can compromise grip, especially in wet or adverse conditions, and may indicate underlying issues such as excessive heat buildup, improper inflation, or damage from road debris. Visually inspect the tyre sidewalls for cracks, delamination, or signs of dry rot, and check the tread depth for uniformity and wear patterns—uneven wear may signal misalignment, suspension issues, or incorrect tyre orientation. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the rear tyres, such as a grinding or scraping sound that could indicate edge wear or a potential failure. Additionally, the front tyres show wear close to the legal limit, suggesting they should be replaced soon to prevent skidding or reduced braking performance. Beyond the tyres, given the vehicle’s age and low annual mileage, the buyer should prioritise checks on the suspension and standing corrosion. The suspension system, particularly the coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes, may have degraded from prolonged inactivity, leading to clunking noises when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. Inspect the suspension for signs of leakage, stiffness, or excessive play, and listen for a lack of damping—this could indicate worn shock absorbers or collapsed springs. Corrosion is a particular concern for a vehicle that has stood for extended periods, especially around the wheel arches, exhaust system, and underbody components. Check for rust on the wheel wells, exhaust tailpipes, and any exposed metal parts, as corrosion can compromise structural integrity and lead to leaks or failures. The 12-volt battery should also be tested for capacity and charge retention, as prolonged disuse can reduce its lifespan. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full fluid service within the manufacturer’s recommended intervals, the coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid should be checked for contamination or degradation, with a recommendation to replace them if they appear old or discoloured. A thorough visual and functional inspection of the exhaust system for leaks, cracks, or excessive noise is also advisable, as emissions-related advisories or failures could become a recurring issue if not addressed promptly.