2018 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · R17 YAP

The latest MOT test on the 2018 Ford Fiesta recorded a failure in October 2025, with the primary defect being the offside direction indicator not functioning, alongside several advisories related to tyre damage and front brake disc wear. This marks a deviation from the previous three MOTs, which were all passed without defects, suggesting a potential issue with the indicator system or a recent change in tyre condition. While the failure was due to a functional fault rather than a structural or safety-critical issue, the recurring tyre advisories—particularly the nearside and offside front outer tyres showing cuts not deep enough to reach the ply—indicate ongoing wear concerns that may warrant closer attention. The presence of a front brake disc wear advisory in the most recent passed MOT also hints at gradual brake component degradation, which could become more pronounced with continued use. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 42,098 miles over approximately eight years represents an annual usage rate of around 5,262 miles, which is notably lower than the typical 10,000–12,000 miles per year expected for a similarly aged car. Such low mileage can sometimes reflect lighter usage, long periods of stationary storage, or deliberate underuse, but it also raises questions about the vehicle’s exposure to wear and tear. Extended periods of inactivity can lead to issues such as standing corrosion on brake components, particularly if the car has been left exposed to moisture, or potential fluid degradation in systems like the cooling or hydraulic brake circuits. Additionally, low mileage alone does not guarantee that the vehicle has been maintained according to manufacturer recommendations, so the absence of service records or fluid checks could expose the buyer to unforeseen wear if the car has been neglected. Given the MOT history, the buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the tyre condition, focusing on the near and offside front outer tyres for signs of progressive damage beyond the current cuts. These advisories suggest that the tyres may be nearing the point where deeper ply exposure or cord damage could occur, leading to reduced traction and increased risk of blowouts. During a test drive, listen for uneven tyre wear patterns, which could indicate misalignment or suspension issues, and check for any unusual vibrations or pulling sensations that might signal tyre or wheel balance problems. The front brake discs show wear but are not yet excessively worn, so a closer inspection for signs of glazing, warping, or corrosion is advisable. If the discs appear smooth but the pads are worn down to the backing plate, this could necessitate immediate replacement to prevent overheating and disc damage. For the buyer, a comprehensive physical inspection should also cover the direction indicator system, particularly the offside unit, which failed the MOT. Test the indicator’s operation by engaging it while the engine is running and checking for consistent illumination and no flickering. The vehicle’s low annual mileage suggests that age-related wear, such as tyre sidewall perishing observed in previous MOTs, should be thoroughly examined for cracks or delamination, which can compromise structural integrity. Inspect the brake system for signs of standing corrosion on the discs or calipers, especially if the car has been stationary for extended periods, and verify that the brake hoses and lines are free from leaks or kinks. Additionally, given the potential for fluid degradation over time, check the levels and condition of the cooling system, brake fluid, and power steering fluid, ensuring they meet manufacturer specifications. If service records are not available, consider scheduling a fluid top-up and a general mechanical health check to address any hidden wear or component fatigue that may have developed during the vehicle’s low-mileage usage.