2018 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · FV18 AAU

The 2018 Ford Fiesta’s most recent MOT tests, conducted just over a year ago on 20 August 2025, reveal a concerning pattern of recurring faults despite passing the primary test. The vehicle failed on the same day due to a minor washer fluid deficiency, yet the primary pass record still flags severe brake disc lipping on both front wheels and sidewall damage to the nearside rear tyre. This suggests either a rushed or incomplete repair process, as the same critical issues persisted. The 2024 test, conducted at 56,109 miles, only failed on headlamp alignment—a minor and easily corrected defect—while the 2023 test at 47,108 miles showed no faults. The trend indicates a deterioration in maintenance consistency, particularly with brake components and tyre integrity, which should not be overlooked. The recorded mileage of 58,564 miles over eight years equates to approximately 7,320 miles annually, a rate that aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age. There are no significant gaps in mileage accumulation, though the absence of intermediate MOTs between 2023 and 2024 suggests either a deliberate deferral or a period of non-use. The most notable outlier is the identical mileage at the 2025 tests, which implies the vehicle was not driven between the primary pass and failure—an unusual circumstance that warrants scrutiny. This stagnation could indicate pre-test adjustments or a lack of regular servicing, as wear items like brakes and tyres would logically degrade further with continued use. A buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the front brake discs, which have been repeatedly flagged for lipping—a condition that can lead to uneven wear, reduced braking efficiency, and eventual caliper binding. The nearside rear tyre’s sidewall damage, if not professionally repaired, poses a risk of sudden failure and should be visually confirmed as either patched or replaced. Headlamp alignment, while minor, is a safety-critical item that should be reset to avoid dazzling oncoming drivers. Suspension components, particularly bushes and coil springs, should be checked for uneven wear or corrosion, as these are often overlooked but critical to handling and structural integrity. Given the inconsistent MOT history, a full brake system flush and tyre pressure monitoring system (if fitted) should also be verified, as these are frequently neglected areas in vehicles with patchy maintenance records.