2018 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · AV18 DPZ

The latest DVSA MOT test on the 2018 Ford Fiesta recorded a failure on 2026-06-30, with two major defects—one affecting the offside rear tyre’s ply integrity and another related to the front windscreen wiper’s clearance efficiency—indicating a deterioration in roadworthiness compared to prior clean tests. This failure follows a pattern of recurring tyre-related issues, particularly on the rear tyres, which were flagged as failing in 2023-11-30 and 2026-06-30, alongside consistent minor windscreen damage. While earlier MOTs in 2024 and 2025 were clean, the presence of advisories such as offside front tyre cuts and near-side rear nail punctures suggests underlying tyre wear patterns that may not yet have reached critical thresholds but warrant closer attention. The vehicle’s overall maintenance trend appears to be unstable, with recent tests revealing significant defects that could escalate if not addressed promptly. The recorded mileage of 64,007 miles for an eight-year-old Fiesta represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 8,001 miles per year, which is within the expected range for this vehicle class. This usage profile does not suggest excessive wear from high-mileage accumulation, but it also does not indicate light or infrequent use, which could have mitigated certain wear patterns. The absence of substantial mileage gaps—such as long periods of inactivity—may contribute to issues like brake system corrosion or fluid degradation, as standing vehicles can accelerate wear in components like calipers and seals. Additionally, the consistent tyre defects, particularly on the rear, could imply either aggressive driving habits or underlying suspension or alignment problems that exacerbate tyre contact with the road surface. Given the recurring tyre failures and advisories, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the tyres, focusing on the rear and offside front positions for signs of uneven wear, cord exposure, or further punctures. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises such as clunking or squeaking from the rear tyres, which could indicate misalignment or suspension component wear. Check for excessive vibration or pulling to one side while driving, as these symptoms often accompany misaligned wheels or worn suspension bushes. Inspect the front windscreen wiper blades for effectiveness and cleanliness, ensuring they leave no streaks or fail to clear the glass fully, which could worsen with age or misuse. If the wiper motor or mechanism is suspected of being faulty, consider replacing it to prevent further windscreen damage. For the broader mechanical health of the vehicle, examine the rear tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even at moderate mileages due to age-related degradation. Check the brake discs for signs of corrosion, binding, or uneven thickness, particularly on the rear where previous MOT failures were noted. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks or excessive noise, which could indicate catalytic converter or muffler issues, and verify that the vehicle meets current emissions standards. Pay attention to the fluid levels and condition—particularly the brake fluid, which can degrade over time and lead to spongy brake pedals—and consider a professional check of the 12V battery, as older vehicles may experience reduced capacity or internal corrosion from prolonged standing. Finally, ensure that all service records are up to date, especially for oil changes, timing belt replacement (if applicable), and suspension component servicing, as these are critical for long-term reliability. If the tyre defects persist or worsen, budget for a professional tyre rotation or replacement to prevent further roadworthiness issues.