2017 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · AC17 LLY

The most recent MOT on 29 August 2026 was a pass with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle currently meets the statutory safety standards. Over the past five years the record shows a mixed picture: two failures in 2023 and 2024 for a fractured rear coil spring and a faulty front seat‑belt buckle, followed by a series of passes and advisories. The trend is stabilising, as the major safety failures have been rectified and the last two years have produced clean passes, albeit with tyre wear advisories that persist. At 130,706 miles for a 2017 model the car averages roughly 14,500 miles per annum, well above the UK average of about 10,000 miles per year for a small hatchback. This higher utilisation accelerates wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes, suspension bushings and engine oil, and it suggests the vehicle has spent a substantial amount of time under load rather than in storage. There are no obvious mileage gaps in the MOT history, so the accumulation appears steady rather than the result of long periods of inactivity that could mask age‑related degradation. The recurring tyre advisories on the nearside front and rear, and the offside front, demand immediate attention. Inspect all four tyres for tread depth, sidewall cracks, bulges or cuts; the legal minimum is 1.6 mm but for a high‑mileage car it is prudent to replace any tyre showing uneven wear or edge damage, as this can lead to reduced grip, aquaplaning and premature puncture. Listen for clunking or creaking from the rear offside suspension when braking or traversing bumps, which could indicate that the previously fractured coil spring was not correctly repaired or that related bushings are now worn. Test the front seat‑belt buckle for a firm click and smooth retraction, and feel the brake pedal for any pulsation or “fluctuating” feel that was flagged in 2022, as this may point to warped discs or uneven pad wear. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, a thorough visual and tactile inspection is advisable. Check the battery terminals for corrosion and assess the 12 V battery’s cranking power, especially if the car has been idle for periods. Examine the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or glazing, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding. Look for any signs of fluid leaks around the engine bay, under the vehicle and at the rear axle, as seals can deteriorate with mileage. Verify that the service book contains regular oil and filter changes, and consider a fresh coolant and brake fluid flush if the last service was over 12 months ago. A test drive should include listening for any abnormal noises from the suspension, steering feel for play, and monitoring for vibrations at higher speeds that could reveal wheel imbalance or worn drivetrain components.