2017 Ford Fiesta 1.5L Diesel · AE17 VNX

The 2017 Ford Fiesta presents a stable and improving maintenance trend, culminating in a clean pass on 20 June 2023 at 45,842 miles with zero defects recorded. That result marks a clear step forward from the preceding years, where tyre-related failures and advisories were a recurring theme. The record shows no structural, suspension, braking, or emissions defects at any point, suggesting the core mechanical and structural integrity of the vehicle has remained sound throughout its life. The mileage profile tells a specific story. Between the August 2020 test at 34,601 miles and the June 2021 test at 35,836 miles, the car covered just 1,235 miles in roughly ten months, indicating a period of very light use or possible standing. From June 2021 at 35,836 miles to June 2022 at 41,413 miles, the annual jump was 5,577 miles, a more typical pace. The final recorded interval from June 2022 to June 2023 added only 4,429 miles. At roughly 5,094 miles per year over nine years, this is low for its age. Buyers should verify whether the low mileage reflects genuine light commuting or extended periods of inactivity, as prolonged standing can cause flat-spotted tyres, seized brake calipers, and stale fuel issues. The MOT history flags a clear pattern of tyre maintenance neglect rather than a single isolated event. On 6 August 2020 at 34,601 miles, the tester noted a nail in the offside rear tyre and a nearside rear tyre worn close to the legal limit and worn on edge, pointing to uneven wear likely caused by misalignment or underinflation. Just under a year later, on 14 June 2022 at 41,413 miles, the car failed on the same axle for nearside rear tyre tread below 1.6mm. Tyre condition appeared on two consecutive test cycles, suggesting basic tyre pressure checks and alignment inspections were not being carried out regularly between services. The clean pass in 2023 with no tyre defects indicates this issue was finally addressed, but the repeated nature of the fault warrants closer scrutiny. A buyer inspecting this vehicle in person should focus on the condition and age of all four tyres, including the sidewalls and inner edges, and check for any uneven wear patterns that could point to tracking or suspension bush wear. The rear brake components deserve attention given the low mileage and potential for corrosion from standing periods. Inspect the underside for surface rust on brake discs, exhaust hangers, and suspension mounting points. Verify the service history independently, as the MOT record alone cannot confirm whether oil changes and brake fluid replacements were carried out on schedule. The clean 2023 result is encouraging, but the tyre-related lapses in 2020 and 2022 suggest previous ownership was reactive rather than proactive with routine maintenance.