2007 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Diesel · CE57 AAY

The latest DVSA MOT test for this 2007 Ford Fiesta was conducted on 2022-10-22, resulting in a passing outcome despite several advisories that indicate ongoing but manageable issues. The vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories related to tyre wear, particularly on the front offside and rear nearside, which suggests either uneven loading or alignment problems that have persisted through multiple tests. The presence of a major failure in 2021-11-09—specifically the offside front service brake binding—demonstrates a critical mechanical concern that was not rectified before the subsequent MOT, though it was not repeated in the latest test. While the overall trend appears stable in terms of passing MOTs, the persistent advisories and the unresolved binding issue from the previous year warrant closer attention to ensure no underlying structural or hydraulic issues have developed further. The recorded mileage of 102,363 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 19 years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of around 5,388 miles per year, which is unusually low for its age. Such a low mileage can often reflect periods of prolonged standing, particularly if the vehicle was used in a climate with significant temperature fluctuations or stored in a damp environment, both of which accelerate wear on components like seals, gaskets, and brake systems. However, the consistent advisories on tyre wear, particularly the edge wear, may imply that the vehicle has been subjected to uneven loading or misalignment, which could be exacerbated by infrequent use—such as when the car sits for extended periods without being driven, leading to potential suspension or steering linkage issues. The binding brake issue from the 2021 MOT failure further suggests that the brake system may have been compromised by prolonged inactivity, potentially causing corrosion or binding within the caliper or brake hose. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the front offside and rear nearside tyres, as the edge wear advisories indicate that the vehicle may have been driven with uneven tyre contact, which could lead to premature tyre failure or misalignment issues. On a test drive, listen for any irregularities in tyre noise or vibration, and check for uneven tread wear patterns that might suggest steering or suspension misalignment. The binding front service brake is a major concern, as it indicates a potential hydraulic or mechanical failure in the offside front brake system. Inspect the brake hoses and calipers for leaks, corrosion, or binding, and listen for any grinding or squealing noises when applying the brakes, particularly on the offside front wheel. If the binding persists, the caliper may need to be serviced or replaced, and the brake fluid should be checked for contamination or degradation, which can worsen over time. Additionally, given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, the buyer should thoroughly examine the suspension components for signs of wear or corrosion, particularly the front offside shock absorbers, which showed light misting of oil in the latest MOT. Inspect the shock absorbers for leaks, excessive play, or a lack of damping, as misting can indicate internal failure. Test the vehicle’s handling by driving over bumps and listening for clunks or rattles, which may indicate worn suspension bushes or broken coil spring mounts. The rear exhaust box corrosion advisories suggest that the vehicle has been exposed to moisture or salt, which can accelerate rusting around mounting brackets. Check for structural integrity in the exhaust system, particularly around the rear mounting points, and ensure there are no leaks or excessive noise from the exhaust, which could indicate corrosion or a failing silencer. Finally, given the prolonged periods of inactivity, the battery should be tested for capacity and corrosion on the terminals, and the 12V electrical system should be checked for any signs of wear or poor connections. The vehicle’s fluid levels—particularly brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil—should be topped up, and the service book should be reviewed to confirm compliance with the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, especially for items like timing belt replacement, which is critical for a vehicle of this age.