2010 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · HG60 AAN

The most recent MOT test on this 2010 Ford Fiesta, conducted on 5 October 2025, resulted in a Pass with two minor advisories relating to slight perishing on the nearside front and rear tyres. This is a broadly positive outcome, indicating the vehicle met the statutory roadworthiness criteria at the time of test. However, the broader MOT history warrants careful scrutiny. The 2024 test initially failed on a Major defect concerning an excessively worn offside front lower suspension arm ball joint, a significant safety-related component. This was rectified to allow the vehicle to pass later the same day. Across the 2023 and 2024 tests, repeated advisories regarding tyre perishing and uneven wear were flagged, alongside items such as deteriorated registration plate, defective rear exhaust mounting, and headlamp aim issues rectified at the time of test. The recurrence of tyre-related advisories over consecutive tests suggests an ongoing pattern of deterioration rather than a single isolated issue, and the suspension ball joint failure indicates that wear on the front suspension components is now actively presenting. Overall, the maintenance trend appears to be one of a gradually deteriorating older vehicle where consumable and suspension components are beginning to demand attention. The recorded mileage of 50,136 miles over approximately sixteen years equates to an average of around 3,134 miles annually, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age. Such low annual usage typically suggests a mix of shorter trips and extended periods of standing, rather than sustained long-distance driving. While low mileage can preserve engine and drivetrain life by reducing mechanical wear, it carries its own set of risks. Vehicles that stand for prolonged periods are more susceptible to brake disc corrosion, binding calipers, deterioration of rubber components including tyres, coolant hoses, and drive belts, as well as 12V battery degradation. The relatively even accumulation of mileage across the recorded test dates suggests no sudden heavy-use periods, but the cumulative effect of years of modest use followed by standing is highly relevant when assessing this particular Fiesta. Given the recurring tyre perishing advisories recorded on three consecutive MOT tests, a prospective buyer should closely inspect all four tyres for sidewall cracking, tread separation, and uneven shoulder wear, particularly on the nearside axle where the pattern has been most pronounced. The 2024 Major defect on the offside front lower suspension arm ball joint is a critical concern. On a test drive, listen for clonks or knocking from the front suspension when traversing speed bumps or uneven surfaces, and pay attention to any vagueness in steering response or uneven front tyre wear which can indicate worn bushes, drop links, or further ball joint deterioration. The exhaust mounting advisory from the same test should prompt a physical check of the rear exhaust rubber hangers for brittleness or detachment, and a listen for any rattling from the rear underside on test. Additionally, the headlamp aim adjustments previously required suggest the headlight levelling mechanism or adjustment screws may be worn, which is worth verifying visually. Beyond the recorded defects, the low annual mileage and sixteen-year age of this Fiesta demand a thorough age-related inspection. Brake discs and calipers are highly susceptible to corrosion and seizing when a vehicle is used infrequently; during a test drive, listen for grinding or scraping noises and ensure the vehicle rolls freely without pulling to one side under light braking. The 12V battery should be load-tested, as batteries beyond five years of age frequently fail without warning, particularly in vehicles that stand for long periods. Time-based fluid servicing is also essential regardless of mileage; coolant, brake fluid, and gearbox oil should have been replaced on a calendar basis, and verifying service book stamps or invoices for these renewals is strongly advised. Finally, inspect all rubber components including drive belts, coolant hoses, and wiper blades for perishing, and check under the bonnet and beneath the vehicle for any signs of fluid seepage or corrosion around suspension mounting points and structural areas, as calendar age rather than mileage is often the dominant factor in the deterioration of a vehicle of this vintage.