2010 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Diesel · EK10 AAV

Steering and suspension component wear represents the primary mechanical concern for this vehicle, with the most recent MOT pass on 16 March 2026 highlighting ongoing issues within the steering and front-end assembly. The inspection recorded advisories for play in the nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint and play in the offside steering rack inner joint, alongside a noted knock in the steering rack itself. This follows a pattern of suspension-related advisories seen in 2024, including worn axle bushes on both rear suspension arms and corroded rear coil springs. While the vehicle has successfully passed its tests, the progression of steering and suspension advisories suggests a trend of accumulating wear in the linkage and damping components. The recorded mileage of 70,528 miles over a sixteen-year period indicates a low annual usage rate of approximately 4,408 miles. While this lower mileage reduces the cumulative wear on drivetrain components and engine internals, such infrequent use can contribute to the degradation of rubber-based components. This is evidenced by the 2024 advisory regarding a perishing or cracking offside rear tyre and the recurring issues with suspension bushes and ball joints. In vehicles with low annual mileage, rubber components such as bushings and tyre sidewalls are more prone to age-related cracking and hardening due to environmental exposure rather than physical tread wear. A test drive should focus heavily on the reported steering rack and suspension defects. Listen for any rhythmic knocking, clicking, or clunking sounds when turning the steering wheel at low speeds or when traversing uneven road surfaces, which would correlate with the reported steering rack knock and ball joint play. Pay close attention to the steering feel; any wandering, lack of precision, or a sensation of the steering being notched or uneven could indicate that the inner steering rack joints or the ball joint play have progressed beyond the advisory stage. Additionally, check for any pulling to one side or vibrations through the steering wheel that might suggest uneven wear or play in the front-end geometry. Further attention should be directed toward the exhaust and rear suspension. The 2024 record noted black smoke during acceleration and corroded rear coil springs, and while the 2026 test did not re-flag the emissions, the history of exhaust silencer looseness and smoke should be monitored. During the drive, observe the exhaust output under load to ensure no further visible smoke is present. Regarding the rear, listen for any heavy thudding or bouncing over bumps, which could indicate that the previously noted corrosion on the coil springs or the wear in the rear axle bushes has worsened.