2014 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Petrol · AT07 ROT

The most recent MOT, carried out on 10 January 2026, was passed with no recorded defects, following a clean result twelve months earlier on 16 January 2025. Prior to that, a failure on 8 January 2025 highlighted several major faults, and an earlier failure in August 2021 recorded similar major items. The pattern shows that the vehicle’s condition has improved since the 2021 failures, with the latest two tests confirming that the previously identified faults have been remedied, suggesting a stabilising maintenance regime. At twelve years old the Fiesta has logged 95,236 miles, giving an average annual mileage of roughly 7,900 miles. This figure sits comfortably within the typical UK usage band and does not indicate excessive wear from high mileage. There are no obvious large mileage gaps that would imply long periods of inactivity, but the relatively modest yearly distance does raise the possibility of extended storage at times, which can affect rubber components and battery health. The MOT history points to recurring issues with the lighting and washer systems, the exhaust emissions, and the service brakes. Verify that the nearside headlamp is correctly aimed, that the lamp type matches the housing, and that the horn produces a clear, uninterrupted tone. The windscreen washer must deliver a steady spray; a weak or intermittent flow could signal a clogged nozzle or a failing pump. The exhaust carbon‑monoxide reading that previously exceeded limits warrants a visual inspection of the catalytic converter and any cracked or rusted sections of the pipe, as well as a brief idle test for abnormal smoke or rattles. On the brake side, the nearside front service brake lag and the offside rear brake binding reported in 2021 should be confirmed as resolved: feel for a firm, even pedal travel with no pull, listen for any grinding or squeal, and check that the rear discs are not excessively corroded or that the calipers are not sticking. The tyre advisory on the nearside front inner edge should be examined for uneven wear, cupping or sidewall cracking, and the tyre tread depth measured to ensure it remains above the legal 1.6 mm limit. Given the vehicle’s age, a thorough visual and tactile inspection is advisable regardless of the MOT record. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for age‑related cracking, especially if the tyres have been on the car for several years. Examine the suspension bushings, ball joints and coil springs for any signs of looseness, creaking or oil leakage, which can develop from prolonged standing. Test the 12‑volt battery voltage and check for any corrosion on the terminals, as batteries over ten years often lose capacity. Verify that all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – are correct and that the fluids appear clean; many manufacturers recommend changing these on a calendar basis even if mileage is low. Finally, review the service book for regular oil changes, timing belt or chain service, and any recorded replacements of wear items such as brake pads, discs or spark plugs, as these will give further confidence in the car’s overall mechanical health.