2010 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · ST10 AEB

This Ford Fiesta has experienced a notable decline in its mechanical roadworthiness in recent years, culminating in a significant MOT failure in July 2025. While the vehicle passed its annual inspections cleanly for several consecutive years from 2018 to 2022, issues began to emerge in 2023 with a minor defect for a deteriorated constant velocity boot, followed by advisories for corroded brake pipes and structural corrosion in 2024. The most recent test failure in 2025 highlighted critical safety concerns, specifically an ineffective nearside windscreen wiper and the dangerous fitting of different sized tyres on the same front axle, alongside deteriorated registration plates. This pattern indicates a worsening trend in the vehicle's condition, moving from a period of consistent passes to recurring defects and a major failure. The recorded mileage of 157,307 miles over approximately 16 years, averaging around 9,832 miles per year, is typical for a vehicle of this age. This level of usage generally means that many consumable components, such as brake pads, discs, tyres, and suspension bushes, will have seen considerable wear and likely multiple replacements throughout its life. While the consistent annual MOT tests show regular usage, the recent emergence of significant issues suggests that age and accumulated mileage are now contributing to component degradation, particularly concerning structural integrity and critical safety systems. Given the recent MOT history, a thorough professional pre-purchase inspection is essential. Particular attention should be paid to the offside front drive shaft constant velocity boot, which was noted as severely deteriorated in both 2023 and 2024; listen for any clicking or knocking noises from the front wheels, especially when turning at full lock, which could indicate a failing CV joint. The corroded nearside and offside front outer brake pipes flagged in 2024 are a serious concern for braking system integrity and must be meticulously checked for any signs of weeping or advanced corrosion that could lead to a sudden loss of braking pressure. Any spongy feel to the brake pedal or pulling under braking should be investigated immediately. Furthermore, the offside rear outer suspension component mounting prescribed area, specifically the body sill, was noted for corrosion in 2024. This requires a detailed inspection to assess the extent and depth of the rust, as corrosion in structural areas can compromise the vehicle's safety and integrity. Visually inspect the sills, especially near jacking points, for bubbling paint, flaking rust, or perforations. The major failures from the 2025 test, including the ineffective nearside windscreen wiper and the dangerous practice of fitting different sized tyres on the front axle, must be verified as fully rectified with correct, matching tyres fitted and the wiper system functioning perfectly. Check all registration plates for legibility.