2004 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · YM04 AEL

The last recorded MOT test in November 2021 resulted in a pass, although this followed a failure involving lighting and wiper defects. The overall maintenance trend suggests a vehicle that has been kept in a roadworthy state but has suffered from a recurring pattern of suspension wear and wheel integrity issues. Of significant concern is the gap in the MOT history from late 2021 to the present date in 2026, which strongly indicates the vehicle may have been stationary or off the road for several years, potentially masking current mechanical deterioration. The recorded mileage of 65,302 miles over 22 years is exceptionally low, averaging approximately 2,968 miles per year. While this suggests limited wear on the internal engine components and drivetrain, such low usage often presents different risks than high-mileage wear. Long periods of inactivity can lead to the perishing of rubber seals and bushings, the accumulation of moisture in the fuel system, and the seizure of moving parts. The mechanical implications of this usage profile typically involve age-related degradation rather than wear-and-tear. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the braking system and suspension. The 2021 advisory regarding fluctuating front service brakes suggests an inconsistency in brake pad contact or hydraulic pressure; during a test drive, feel for any brake shudder or a spongy pedal. The history of play in the track rod ends, inner ball joints, and anti-roll bar linkages indicates a susceptibility to suspension wear. Listen for clunks or knocks when traversing uneven surfaces or during low-speed manoeuvring, as these symptoms point to progressed wear in the steering and suspension bushings. Given the likely period of standing since the last MOT, a rigorous physical inspection is mandatory. Examine all tyre sidewalls for cracking and perishing, as this was already flagged in 2021 and will have worsened with age. Check the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion and ensure the calipers are not binding, which is common in low-use vehicles. The 12V battery health should be verified, and all fluids should be treated as degraded due to calendar age regardless of the low mileage. Finally, inspect the underbody and the previously noted corroded coil springs for structural integrity to ensure that rust has not compromised the chassis.