2001 Ford Fiesta 1.3L Petrol · SG51 AOS
2001 Ford Fiesta (1.3L, petrol). First registered 27/09/2001. Recorded mileage 47,293 miles. MOT status: Expired. Currently declared SORN.
- Fuel Type
- Petrol
- Year
- 2001
- Engine
- 1299cc
SG51 AOS Key Findings
- 4 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 06/06/2023
- 47,293 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 5 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (5 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
Estimate current market value
Generate an instant valuation benchmark based on live market listings, vehicle mileage, and recent dealer auction figures.
SG51 AOS Mileage History
- 03/05/202237,419 mi
- 22/05/202346,997 mi+9,578 mi
- 06/06/202347,293 mi+296 mi
- 06/06/202347,293 mi
Average of roughly 9,042 miles per year across 4 recorded odometer readings.
SG51 AOS MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
4 MOT tests are recorded for this 2001 Ford Fiesta (SG51 AOS) between May 2022 and June 2023.
The record contains 2 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 06 June 2023 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Brakes (5 issues), Suspension (5 issues), Tyres (4 issues), Windscreen (4 issues), Bodywork (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 15 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Recorded failure items include: “Front Headlamp not working on dipped beam Nearside and offside (4.1.1 (a) (ii))”; “Front Windscreen wiper does not clear the windscreen effectively nearside and offside (3.4 (b) (ii))”; “Offside Rear Service brake lagging in operation (1.2.1 (d))”.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Caution is advised – the low mileage is attractive, but recent MOT failures and extensive corrosion suggest significant repair work ahead.
Before committing, obtain a full service history and confirm whether any of the recent MOT failures have been rectified. Pay particular attention to any receipts for suspension, brake or drive‑shaft repairs, as these components have shown repeated issues. Given the extent of corrosion on the rear‑suspension mounting and brake hoses, negotiate a price that reflects the likely cost of addressing these problems. If the seller cannot provide evidence of recent repairs, factor in the expense of a comprehensive mechanical inspection and the possibility of sourcing replacement parts for an ageing model.
The Fiesta’s 1.3 L engine is generally straightforward to maintain, but the PRS note about an engine MIL fault in the 2023 MOT suggests a diagnostic check is essential. A pre‑purchase inspection should include a scan for fault codes, a compression test, and verification that the headlamp, wiper, and brake systems are fully functional. Be wary of any hidden rust, especially under the rear‑subframe, as the MOT flagged excessive corrosion that can affect structural integrity.
If you are comfortable with a project car or plan to use it for short‑term, low‑mileage commuting, the low odometer reading may justify the purchase after a thorough mechanical assessment. Otherwise, consider alternative Fiesta models with cleaner MOT records and less corrosion.
The 1.3 L petrol engine typically achieves around 40 mpg on combined driving, putting fuel costs at roughly £1,200‑£1,400 per year based on average UK mileage. Vehicle tax for a 2001 Fiesta falls into Band A, costing about £165 annually. Insurance groups for this model usually sit in the 11‑12 range, translating to an estimated £600‑£750 per year for a 30‑year‑old driver. As the car is over two decades old, expect higher-than‑average maintenance, with brake, suspension and tyre replacements likely costing £300‑£500 each year. Overall, a realistic annual running cost sits between £1,300 and £1,800.
Focus on the rear‑suspension mounting area where the MOT recorded "excessively corroded" components – inspect for rust, cracked welds, and any movement in the sub‑frame. The off‑side front drive‑shaft CV boot was flagged as severely deteriorated and later split; verify its condition and replace if necessary to prevent joint failure.
Check the brake system thoroughly: the MOT highlighted rear brake lag, brake‑hose deterioration, and an imbalance across the rear axle. Examine all brake hoses for cracks, test the handbrake for proper operation, and confirm that the brake discs are not excessively worn. Also, inspect the headlamps and windscreen wipers, both of which failed the 2023 MOT, to ensure they are functional and free of damage.
Lastly, run a diagnostic scan to address the engine MIL fault noted in the 2023 MOT, and review the windscreen for chips that could compromise visibility. Given the age of the vehicle, look for any signs of oil leaks, especially around the engine sump which was previously noted as corroded, and ensure the cooling system is intact.
This 2001 Ford Fiesta (blue, 1.3 L petrol) has only 47,293 mi on the clock, well below the average for its age, which is a clear positive. However, the MOT history from 2022‑2023 shows multiple major failures, including faulty headlamps, brake lag, a deteriorated drive‑shaft boot, and severe rear‑suspension corrosion. Earlier tests also reveal recurring brake‑hose and tyre wear advisories. The combination of low mileage and high wear means the car could be a bargain if you are prepared for potentially costly remedial work.
No aggregate reliability data is available for this specific Fiesta, but older Ford Fiestas are generally known for decent mechanical simplicity; however, age‑related corrosion and wear can undermine reliability.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
Similar Vehicles
Similar Vehicles Checked Recently
Plate Neighbors
Batch Registration Neighbors (SG51 Series)
Vehicles registered in the same regional DVLA batch as SG51AOS.
LAND ROVER
RANGE ROVER
MINI
COOPER D
TOYOTA
AYGO
AUDI
E-TRON TECHNIK 55 QUATTRO
FORD
FOCUS
FORD
FIESTA
PORSCHE
911
MERCEDES-BENZ
CLA
VAUXHALL
GRANDLAND ULTIMATE TURBO AUTO
SMART (MCC)
FORTWO COUPE
MAZDA
CX-60 HOMURA PHEV AUTO
VOLKSWAGEN
POLO