2007 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · AF07 OTA

The latest MOT test resulted in a pass on 31 October 2025, although this followed a failure the previous day. The overall maintenance trend appears to be slightly declining, as the vehicle has moved from clean passes in 2022 and 2023 to a pattern of multiple major failures and advisories in 2024 and 2025. While the failures have been addressed to achieve a pass, the increasing frequency of defects related to lighting, washer systems, and suspension components suggests that the vehicle is entering a phase of accelerated wear and tear typical for its age. With a recorded mileage of 133,612 miles over approximately 19 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 7,032 miles per year. This represents a stable and typical usage profile for a small hatchback, indicating it has been used consistently rather than suffering from the degradation associated with long periods of standing or the extreme wear of high-mileage commercial use. However, at this odometer reading, the mechanical components have undergone significant duty cycles, meaning that rubber bushings, engine mounts, and drivetrain consumables are likely nearing the end of their effective service life. A prospective buyer should focus heavily on the steering and suspension systems during inspection. The history reveals a recurring theme of failing dust covers on ball joints and anti-roll bar linkages, alongside advisories regarding play in the steering rack inner joints. During a test drive, listen for rhythmic clunks or knocks when traversing uneven road surfaces and feel for any vagueness or excessive play in the steering wheel. Furthermore, the current advisory regarding oil misting on the offside rear shock absorber indicates a leaking seal; while not yet a failure, this suggests the damper is losing its effectiveness, which can negatively impact vehicle stability and braking performance. Beyond the suspension, the repeated failures concerning headlamp aim and lighting suggest the electrical system and lamp housings should be thoroughly checked for corrosion or loose adjustments. Given the vehicle's age and mileage, it is essential to inspect the underbody and sills for structural corrosion and verify that the service history confirms regular oil and filter changes to ensure engine longevity. Finally, check the brake discs for excessive lipping or surface corrosion and confirm that the windscreen washer system is now functioning correctly without leaks, as this was a recent point of failure.