1989 FORD FIESTA1.1L Petrol

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 2026-02-11 confirms it remains roadworthy, with no defects recorded at 47,186 miles. The consistent pass history over the past three annual tests—including a duplicate entry for 2024—suggests no recurring mechanical failures, though the lack of advisories or defects does not preclude hidden wear. The most recent test was conducted just five months ago, which is acceptable but not ideal for a vehicle of this age, given the potential for accelerated deterioration in suspension, drivetrain, or corrosion over that period. The recorded mileage of 47,186 miles over 37 years equates to approximately 1,275 miles annually, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this vintage. The gap between the 2023 and 2024 tests spans 12 months with no mileage progression (45,819 to 46,305), followed by another 12 months of stagnation before a slight increase to 47,186. This pattern strongly implies the vehicle has spent extended periods stationary, which could accelerate issues like suspension degradation, brake corrosion, or fuel system stagnation. The absence of mileage between tests also raises questions about whether the vehicle was actively driven or stored, potentially masking underlying problems. Given the lack of MOT advisories or defects, the most critical areas for a buyer to inspect in person would be the suspension components—particularly the coil springs, bushes, and shock absorbers—for signs of dry rot or excessive wear. The brakes, despite no recorded failures, should be scrutinised for uneven pad thickness, corrosion on calipers or brake lines, and binding calipers, as older vehicles are prone to brake fluid degradation and seized components. Structural integrity is another concern; the chassis and wheel arches should be examined for corrosion, especially around the sills and wheel bearings, as prolonged inactivity can exacerbate rust progression. Finally, the exhaust system warrants close inspection for leaks or structural weakness, as emissions systems in older models often fail silently.