1988 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · F590 EKN

Recurring advisories concerning structural integrity, braking components, and steering linkages define the mechanical history of this Ford Fiesta, which successfully passed its most recent MOT on 30 April 2024 with no recorded defects. While the latest test suggests a period of stability, the vehicle has a documented history of component degradation, including previous issues with brake discs, wheel bearings, and suspension joints. This pattern indicates that while the car has met the minimum legal requirements for roadworthiness, it remains susceptible to the age-related wear typical of a vehicle approaching four decades of service. The recorded mileage of 77,303 miles over 38 years equates to an average of roughly 2,034 miles per annum, a figure that highlights a low-intensity usage profile. Significant gaps in the testing history, particularly between 2016 and 2019 and again between 2019 and 2021, suggest that the vehicle may have experienced extended periods of inactivity. Such usage patterns often lead to the stiffening of rubber seals, the oxidation of metallic components, and the potential for seized mechanical linkages, all of which require careful scrutiny during a physical inspection to ensure that long-term storage has not compromised the vehicle's structural or mechanical integrity. Prospective buyers should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension and steering systems, specifically checking for play in the track rod ends and the condition of the constant velocity gaiters, which were flagged as severely deteriorated in 2023. During a test drive, listen for any knocking or clicking noises originating from the front end when cornering or navigating uneven road surfaces, as these are common indicators of worn joints or bushes. Furthermore, the historical advisories regarding brake disc pitting and wheel bearing play necessitate a check for any audible grinding or rotational resistance while the vehicle is in motion, as well as any vibration felt through the steering wheel or brake pedal during deceleration. The historical reports of brake pipe corrosion and hose deterioration, while addressed in previous years, warrant a close examination of the entire hydraulic system for signs of weeping or surface rust. Given the age of the vehicle, the road wheels should also be inspected for the distortion previously noted in the 2019 test, as any imbalance or buckling can cause premature wear to wheel bearings and suspension components. Verify that the vehicle tracks straight on a flat surface and that there is no pulling to either side under braking, as this would suggest uneven wear or binding within the braking or steering assemblies that may have been overlooked between testing intervals.