2015 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · CK15 AAU

The most recent DVSA examination on 28 November 2025 returned a PASS, which is positive, however the result was issued only one day after the vehicle failed its previous test on 27 November 2025. Both records carried identical advisories relating to slight play in the offside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint and the offside front lower suspension arm ball joint, confirming these wear items were identified on consecutive days. The failure itself was attributable to a major defect concerning the offside track rod end ball joint exhibiting excessive play, alongside a major for the windscreen washer providing insufficient washer fluid. The presence of two majors within twenty-four hours is a meaningful concern, as track rod end failure directly compromises steering precision and safety, and any residual play after repair must be verified. Looking back across the MOT history, prior tests in 2022, 2023, and 2024 all passed without advisories, indicating a deterioration in the front suspension and steering geometry that has emerged only recently. This trend warrants careful inspection, as the appearance of advisories on the anti-roll bar and lower arm ball joints alongside the track rod end replacement suggests the front offside corner has either sustained impact damage or reached a wear threshold consistent with the vehicle's age and mileage. With 110,481 miles accumulated over eleven years, this Fiesta has averaged roughly 10,044 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this vintage. There are no significant mileage gaps recorded between consecutive MOTs, demonstrating that the car has been in regular use rather than left standing for extended periods. Consistent usage at this level generally benefits mechanical longevity by preventing common issues associated with low-mileage or stored vehicles such as seized brake calipers, perished rubber components, and flat-spotted tyres. Conversely, ten thousand miles per year over eleven years represents a substantial cumulative workload on the engine, clutch, brakes, and suspension. For a Ford Fiesta of this generation, particular attention should be directed toward the condition of the clutch, dual-mass flywheel if fitted, gearbox synchro wear, and exhaust system integrity, as these items accumulate wear progressively with mileage rather than simply with calendar age. Given the recent advisory items concerning the offside front anti-roll bar linkage and lower suspension arm ball joint, a prospective buyer should thoroughly inspect this area during a physical examination. On a test drive, listen carefully for any clonking or knocking noises from the front offside wheel when traversing uneven road surfaces or speed bumps, as worn anti-roll bar linkages typically produce a distinctive rattle over rougher tarmac. Uneven or feathered tyre wear, particularly on the inner or outer edges of the offside front tyre, can also indicate worn suspension joints. A further test involves pushing the front offside wheel laterally by hand at the top and bottom when the vehicle is raised, feeling for any play in the suspension arm ball joint, and rocking the wheel fore and aft to detect looseness in the track rod end if access allows. The replacement track rod end fitted after the failure should also be checked for proper torque and the wheel alignment verified, as failure to align after such a repair can lead to uneven steering pull and accelerated tyre wear. Steering should feel precise and self-centring without vibration or slack. Beyond the documented steering and suspension concerns, several age- and mileage-related items merit careful attention. The timing belt or chain service interval should be confirmed, as the 1.0 EcoBoost and 1.25 Duratec engines fitted to this model have specific replacement schedules that must be observed to prevent catastrophic failure. Brake discs and pads should be inspected for wear, particularly given that the front offside corner has clearly sustained recent attention; corrosion on the disc faces from regular use is normal, but excessively lipped or scored discs indicate imminent replacement. All tyres should be examined for both tread depth and sidewall cracking, as tyres over five years old can suffer perishing regardless of remaining tread. The 12V battery should be tested for cranking performance, and the coolant, brake fluid, and transmission oil checked for condition and age-appropriate replacement, particularly given the calendar span since manufacture. Finally, ensure all recall work has been completed and that service book stamps corroborate the recorded mileage, confirming that routine maintenance has been diligently upheld throughout the vehicle's life.