2005 Ford Fusion 1.4L Diesel · AF55 WFN

The most recent recorded DVSA MOT test for this 2005 Ford Fusion took place on 26 October 2021 and resulted in a pass, although the same date also carries a fail entry showing that the vehicle was re-presented after dangerous tyre defects were rectified. The pass certificate lists minor items relating to deteriorated anti-roll bar ball joint and suspension arm ball joint dust covers, together with advisories for rear suspension component corrosion and an oil leak not considered excessive. Looking back through the history, the pattern shows a mix of pass and fail outcomes over several years, with repeated mentions of brake pipe corrosion, tyre damage, suspension wear and minor oil leaks. The presence of dangerous tyre defects at the most recent test is a notable concern, as it suggests the previous keeper may have been running the vehicle close to the limits of roadworthiness, and the recurrence of brake pipe corrosion between 2019 and 2020 indicates progressive deterioration that warrants careful inspection of the entire braking system. The recorded mileage of 178,040 against a vehicle age of approximately 21 years equates to an annual average of around 8,478 miles, which is broadly typical for an older Ford Fusion of this type. However, there are noticeable gaps in the MOT history, with no recorded tests between mid-2017 and late 2018, and again between late 2020 and late 2021, which could indicate periods of low use, Soring, or possibly the vehicle being off the road. Given the high overall mileage for a car of its vintage, wear-related components such as clutch, gearbox mountings, engine ancillary drives, suspension bushes, coil springs and exhaust system will have accrued substantial fatigue. Even though the annual figure is modest, the total mileage suggests that major mechanical items have done considerable work, and any history of timing belt, clutch or gearbox replacement should be verified through service documentation. Given the recurring brake pipe corrosion advisories from 2019 escalating to major failures in 2020, a prospective buyer should carry out a thorough physical inspection of the brake lines, particularly along the underside of the vehicle where they run along chassis rails and rear axle areas. Listen on the test drive for any sponginess in the brake pedal, grinding or scraping noises from worn pads contacting corroded discs, or pulling to one side under braking. The mention of nearside rear shock absorber misting on the 2019 test is also worth monitoring, as shock dampers tend to deteriorate progressively with age and mileage, so test for excessive bouncing over bumps and any clonking from the rear suspension. The persistent oil leak advisory, noted in both 2018 and 2021, suggests an ongoing seal or gasket issue that may be worsening, so inspecting the engine bay and undertray for fresh oil accumulation and checking fluid levels before and after a test drive is advisable. Beyond the recorded defects, the age and mileage profile of this Fusion demand attention to time-served consumables that may not have been flagged on recent MOTs but remain critical for safety and reliability. Tyres on a vehicle of this age can suffer sidewall perishing and cracking even where tread depth appears adequate, so all four tyres should be examined closely for hairline cracks in the rubber compound and for any bulges or uneven wear patterns suggestive of suspension misalignment or binding calipers. The 12 volt battery is likely due for renewal given the vehicle's age, and corrosion can build up on terminals leading to poor starting and electrical faults. Brake discs may have developed significant surface corrosion from standing periods, potentially causing brake shudder or juddering on first application, while brake fluid, coolant and gearbox oil will almost certainly be beyond their recommended replacement intervals and should be considered for a full fluid service. Finally, given the structural corrosion advisory on rear suspension mounting areas, a careful examination of the rear axle mounting points, sill sections and subframe for any bubbling or perforation is strongly recommended before purchase.