2014 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · AF14 OTH

A clear mechanical narrative emerges from this Fiesta's MOT history centred on tyre condition and, to a lesser extent, the front braking components. The car passed its most recent test on 24 April 2026 with no defects recorded, continuing a pattern of pass results across the documented period. However, the underlying advisories reveal chronic issues that have not gone away. Tyre perishing and sidewall damage have appeared repeatedly since 2023, including a dangerous defect in April 2023 where the nearside front tyre had exposed ply or cords in the sidewall — a failure level at which the vehicle should not have been driven. Brake wear advisories on the nearside front disc and pads in April 2025 also suggest the front braking components are at a stage where replacement should be anticipated imminently. The recorded mileage of 44,938 miles over twelve years equates to roughly 3,745 miles annually, which is notably low for a Fiesta of this vintage and suggests either consistent light use or periods where the car was used sparingly. There are no extended gaps in the MOT testing record, with annual tests consistently performed, indicating the vehicle has remained on the road throughout. For a low-mileage Fiesta of this age, one would typically expect attention to ageing rubber components, brake fluid degradation, and potential corrosion in areas prone to moisture collection. The fact that braking components have begun to register advisories despite the low annual mileage suggests genuine component wear rather than simply heavy usage. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the tyres during inspection. Given the repeated advisories for perishing, cuts, and under-inflation issues, all four tyres and the spare should be carefully examined for sidewall cracking, bulges, and tread depth, and any tyre older than five years from its DOT manufacture date should be treated as due for replacement regardless of remaining tread. On a test drive, listen for any brake judder or vibration through the steering wheel under moderate braking, which would indicate the nearside front disc has worn beyond serviceable limits and requires machining or replacement. The pedal feel should be assessed for firmness, and the car should pull up in a straight line without any pulling to one side, which could indicate binding calipers following long periods of low-mileage use. Beyond the flagged components, the suspension and steering should be exercised over uneven surfaces during the test drive, with particular attention to any knocking, clonking, or creaking from the front end that could indicate worn suspension bushes or droplinks — components that can deteriorate from age rather than mileage alone. Given the vehicle's light usage pattern, the handbrake operation and rear brake functionality should be checked thoroughly, as caliper sliders and rear drum mechanisms can seize when used infrequently. The underbody and wheel arches should be inspected for any corrosion, particularly around the suspension mounting points and subframe areas. Finally, confirming the service history is essential, particularly evidence of brake fluid changes, coolant replacement, and timing belt or chain inspection intervals appropriate to the Fiesta's age and engine specification.