2011 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · AC55 PER

The most recent MOT inspection on 28 July 2026 resulted in a pass, but the inclusion of advisories regarding the rear suspension indicates a shift in the vehicle's maintenance profile. While the testing history from 2020 to 2025 was largely clean or limited to tyre-related advisories, the recent appearance of suspension component wear suggests that the vehicle's mechanical condition is beginning to transition from age-related cosmetic degradation to more significant structural and running gear wear. The maintenance trend should be viewed as slightly worsening in terms of mechanical components, as the suspension bushes are now showing signs of deterioration that will eventually require intervention to maintain roadworthiness and handling precision. With a recorded mileage of only 30,016 miles over approximately 15 years, this Ford Fiesta has been driven at an exceptionally low rate of roughly 2,000 miles per year. While low mileage often suggests less wear on the engine and gearbox, such infrequent usage is a double-edged sword. Long periods of inactivity or very short journeys can lead to specific mechanical issues that high-mileage vehicles might avoid. In this case, the low usage pattern aligns with the historical advisories regarding tyre perishing and the recent suspension wear, suggesting the vehicle may have spent significant time stationary or has been subjected to the stresses of short, low-temperature trips which do not allow the engine or exhaust system to reach optimal operating temperatures. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the rear suspension during a test drive. The advisories for worn nearside and offside rear suspension arm pins or trailing arm bushes mean you should listen for dull thuds, clunks, or knocking noises when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps. If the bushes have excessive play, you may also notice rear-end instability or a slight shimmy when cornering or braking. Furthermore, the historical record of tyre perishing due to age is a critical warning sign. Even if the tread depth appears sufficient, tyres manufactured over a decade ago are prone to sidewall cracking and structural failure. You must inspect the DOT date codes on all four tyres; any rubber that appears brittle, cracked, or shows signs of dry rot should be replaced immediately regardless of tread depth. Given the low annual mileage, additional physical inspections are essential to ensure the vehicle has not suffered from standing-related degradation. Check the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion or pitting, which can occur if the car is not driven regularly, and ensure the calipers are not binding due to seized slide pins. It is also advisable to verify the service history for evidence of calendar-based maintenance, such as oil changes and brake fluid flushes, which are more critical for low-usage vehicles than mileage-based intervals. Finally, inspect the 12V battery health and check for any signs of fluid leaks from seals that may have dried out due to infrequent use. Ensuring that all rubber hoses and belts are supple and free from cracking will be vital for the long-term reliability of this low-mileage example.