2019 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · AF69 EWC

The most recent MOT test on 2026-08-19 resulted in a passing grade, though it included two advisories: an offside rear inner lamp unit that has cracked and is filled with water, and a non-functional offside rear inner reverse light (while the auxiliary reverse lamp remains operational). This follows a pattern of consistent MOT results over the past three years, with no failures recorded until 2025, when the vehicle encountered three major defects—one related to windscreen wiper effectiveness, another to severely worn rear brake discs, and a fluctuating rear service brake condition. The failure in 2025 suggests a period of wear or potential neglect, particularly concerning the brake system, which warrants closer scrutiny before purchase. The fact that the vehicle passed subsequent tests implies that any underlying issues were either addressed or not yet critical, but the history indicates that the brake components, in particular, have experienced notable wear. The recorded mileage of 25,427 miles for a 2019 Ford Fiesta represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 3,632 miles per year, which is unusually low for its age. Such a low mileage often suggests periods of prolonged inactivity, possibly due to storage, seasonal use, or infrequent ownership. However, this usage profile can mask underlying wear from standing, particularly in components like brakes, suspension, and electrical systems that degrade over time even without high mileage. For example, standing brake discs can corrode or develop binding calipers, leading to uneven wear or reduced braking performance. Similarly, suspension bushes and coil springs may exhibit stiffness or clunking due to dryness or minor corrosion, and the battery could be affected by prolonged disuse, potentially leading to reduced cranking power or failure to start. The lack of recent high-mileage accumulation means consumables such as brake pads, tyres, and fluids may not have been subjected to the same level of stress as in higher-mileage vehicles, but this also means wear from standing or calendar-based degradation remains a critical consideration. Given the MOT history, the buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system, as the 2025 failure highlighted significant rear brake disc wear and fluctuating service brake performance. On a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, excessive vibration or shuddering during braking, or signs of pulsation from worn or warped discs. Inspect the rear brake discs for deep grooves, scoring, or uneven thickness, and check for any binding or excessive play in the calipers. The fluctuating service brake condition may also suggest issues with brake fluid distribution or hydraulic leaks, so verify that the fluid level is correct and there are no leaks under the vehicle. Additionally, the cracked rear lamp unit and non-functional reverse light should be repaired to ensure compliance with legal requirements, as water ingress into the lamp unit could lead to further damage or electrical faults. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, particularly one with known periods of low or stationary use, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical examination beyond the MOT checks. Begin with the tyres, ensuring there is adequate tread depth (minimum 3mm legal limit) and checking for sidewall cracks or perishing, which can indicate age-related deterioration. The vehicle should be inspected for signs of standing corrosion, particularly around wheel arches, undercarriage, and beneath the rear axle, where moisture can accumulate. The 12V battery should be tested for charge retention and cranking power, as prolonged disuse can lead to sulphation or reduced capacity. Fluid levels should be checked, including brake fluid (which can degrade over time and absorb moisture, compromising performance), coolant, and transmission fluid, with a reminder that these fluids should ideally be replaced at manufacturer-recommended intervals—even if mileage is low—due to their susceptibility to degradation from exposure and heat. Finally, the suspension should be examined for signs of wear in bushes, springs, or mounts, with particular attention to any clunking noises when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces, as these can indicate failing components that may require replacement before they fail catastrophically.