2002 Ford Puma 1.7L Petrol · LH02 AAK

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance trend shows a clear shift towards structural and mechanical degradation in recent years. The most recent test in October 2021 at 130,061 miles identified multiple advisories that were not present in previous years. While the car passed, the appearance of underbody corrosion, worn sub-frame bushes, and corroded brake hoses indicates that the vehicle is entering a phase of accelerated wear-related wear relative to its age. At 130,061 miles over 24 years, the Puma has averaged approximately 5,400 miles per year, which is significantly lower than the national average. The data reveals a notable gap in usage between 2019 and 2021, where the mileage remained static at 128,857 miles for two years. This pattern suggests the vehicle sat for long periods, which often leads to the degradation of rubber components and the accumulation of surface rust on metal surfaces, explaining the corrosion issues noted in the 2021 report. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the chassis to assess the extent of the underbody corrosion flagged in 2020 and 2021. Particular attention is required for the rear sub-frame, as the tester previously noted worn pins and bushes on both sides. The rear brake hoses should also be checked for signs of swelling or further decay at the ferrule, as the corrosion was already established. Additionally, the non-excessive oil leak reported in 2021 needs monitoring to ensure it has not progressed into a significant mechanical failure.