2015 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · MC65 ACO

The most recent MOT test on the 2015 Ford Fiesta, conducted on 2025-12-09, resulted in a clean pass with a single advisory regarding the offside front tyre’s wear approaching the legal limit, specifically showing edge wear of 2 millimetres. This follows a pattern of consistent MOT results over the past three years, with only minor advisories noted in 2024 related to worn suspension swivel pins and bushes on both the near and offside rear axles. The failure in 2022 for a non-functional offside rear stop lamp, while notable, appears to be an isolated incident rather than a recurring issue, suggesting that the vehicle’s overall roadworthiness and maintenance history remain stable rather than deteriorating. The recorded mileage of 39,366 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 11 years represents a notably low annual usage rate of around 3,579 miles per year. Such a low mileage profile is unusual for a car of this age, particularly when compared to typical usage patterns where vehicles accumulate significantly more miles annually. The extended periods of inactivity or light use can lead to several mechanical concerns, including the potential for standing corrosion—particularly on brake systems, suspension components, and exhaust manifolds—where moisture and road salt can accelerate rust formation. Additionally, fluid degradation over time, such as in the brake fluid reservoir or differential fluid, may not be fully addressed if the vehicle has not been driven regularly, potentially compromising long-term reliability. Given the recent MOT advisories and the vehicle’s age and mileage, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection focusing on the suspension and braking systems. The offside front tyre’s edge wear suggests uneven loading or alignment issues, which could worsen if not addressed, leading to further tyre damage or handling instability. During a test drive, listen for any irregular clunking or rattling from the rear suspension, particularly around the swivel pins and bushes, which may indicate impending failure if the wear continues unchecked. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, as this could point to misalignment or steering component wear. The offside rear stop lamp failure from 2022 should be rectified before purchase, as a non-functional lamp is a major MOT defect and poses a safety risk. Additionally, verify that the rear stop lamps have been replaced or repaired to ensure compliance with current regulations. For the buyer, given the vehicle’s low mileage and extended periods of inactivity, a comprehensive physical inspection is essential. Inspect the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur over time even with low mileage, compromising their structural integrity. Check for corrosion on the brake discs, calipers, and brake fluid reservoir, as standing can accelerate rust formation and lead to binding calipers or reduced braking efficiency. Verify the condition of the 12-volt battery, ensuring it holds a charge and has no signs of corrosion or physical damage, as prolonged disuse can lead to battery failure. Finally, consider the calendar-based servicing of fluids such as the engine oil, differential fluid, and brake fluid, as these can degrade over time regardless of mileage. If the service history is sparse, confirm that the vehicle has been serviced according to Ford’s recommended intervals, particularly for the timing belt (if applicable) and other critical components, to mitigate long-term reliability risks.