1989 Ford Fiesta 1.1L Petrol · G554 TJD

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 2025-09-26—just under a year ago—confirms it passed with no defects recorded, though it was tested twice in quick succession in September 2025, once failing at 46,094 miles before passing at 46,097 miles. This suggests a near-miss scenario where minor, non-structural issues were rectified between tests, yet no recurring faults or advisories appear in the last two cycles. The overall trend remains stable, with no evidence of worsening mechanical concerns, though the lack of advisories in prior tests means no prior owner disclosed pre-existing wear patterns. The final pass date is sufficiently recent, placing the vehicle within the standard 12-month MOT validity window as of August 2026. The recorded mileage of 46,097 miles over nearly 37 years equates to an average of around 1,246 miles annually, a figure significantly lower than the typical annual mileage for vehicles of this age. This pattern implies either minimal use, prolonged periods of storage, or consistent off-road/light-duty operation. The most notable gap occurs between the 2023 and 2024 tests, where mileage increased by 5,804 miles in just over a year, yet no failures or advisories were recorded during that period. The consistency in passing tests despite low mileage suggests the vehicle has not undergone excessive wear, though it also raises questions about whether critical components—such as suspension bushes or drivetrain seals—have been overlooked due to limited usage. Given the absence of advisories or recurring faults in the MOT history, a buyer should prioritise an in-person inspection of high-wear areas that often fail silently in low-mileage vehicles. Focus on the suspension system, particularly the condition of coil springs, bushes, and shock absorbers, as these degrade gradually even with minimal use. The brakes, while not flagged in tests, warrant scrutiny for uneven wear, binding calipers, or corrosion on the rear discs—common in older models with inconsistent maintenance. Structural integrity is another concern; inspect the wheel arches, sills, and floor pans for corrosion, as rust can compromise the chassis without immediate MOT failure. Finally, verify the exhaust system for leaks or excessive rust, as emissions-related faults are often the first to appear in vehicles with prolonged inactivity.