2018 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · AF68 XPW

The 2018 Ford Fiesta’s latest MOT test on 2026-05-22 was clean, indicating no roadworthiness failures, though the vehicle’s maintenance history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories rather than outright defects. Over the past four years, the car has consistently passed MOTs with only advisory items—specifically, rear brake disc wear and thinning brake pads—both in 2023 and 2025. These advisories suggest gradual degradation of the near-side and offside rear brake components, which is not yet severe enough to compromise braking performance but warrants close monitoring. The absence of failures in recent tests implies that maintenance has likely addressed or mitigated more critical issues, though the persistent advisories indicate ongoing wear that could escalate without intervention. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 131,847 miles is exceptionally high for its age, averaging approximately 16,481 miles annually—a rate that far exceeds typical usage for a car of this generation. Such high mileage typically accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and drivetrain elements, as well as fluid degradation over time. The lack of significant mileage gaps suggests either heavy use or prolonged periods of inactivity, which could have exacerbated corrosion or fluid stagnation in stationary components, such as brake systems or the engine’s cooling circuit. The rapid mileage accumulation also implies that the vehicle has likely undergone significant stress on its braking and suspension systems, which aligns with the recurring advisories observed in the MOT history. Given the recurring rear brake advisories, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the rear brake assembly, focusing on the near-side and offside discs and pads. Visually inspect the discs for uniform thickness, signs of warping, or excessive pitting, which could indicate uneven wear or thermal damage. Listen for abnormal brake noise or vibrations during a test drive, particularly when applying the brakes, as these may signal binding calipers or warped discs. If the pads are significantly thin—below the manufacturer’s recommended minimum—consider replacing them promptly, as further wear could lead to reduced braking efficiency or the need for disc resurfacing. Additionally, check for fluid leaks around the brake master cylinder and calipers, as moisture ingress or contamination could exacerbate pad wear. For the overall vehicle health, the buyer should also verify the condition of the suspension components, given the high mileage and potential for wear in the rear suspension bushes and coil springs. Perform a visual inspection of the suspension for signs of oil leakage, cracked bushings, or excessive play in the struts. During a test drive, observe for clunking noises from the rear suspension, particularly when navigating bumps or sharp turns, which may indicate failing suspension elements. Inspect the tyres for uneven wear patterns, which can reveal misalignment or suspension issues, and check the sidewall for signs of cracking or perishing, even if the tread remains legal. Given the vehicle’s age, a comprehensive fluid check is essential—top up or replace the engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid, as these fluids degrade over time and can affect performance and longevity. Finally, consider a battery health check, as prolonged inactivity or high mileage can strain the electrical system, leading to potential failure.