2001 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Petrol · AV51 PLX

The most recent DVSA examination on 18 March 2022 resulted in a PASS, although five advisories were issued alongside the pass certificate. Reviewing the sequence of tests from 2018 onwards, the record demonstrates a generally stable maintenance trend with intermittent minor electrical and trim issues, the most recent fail in March 2022 being solely attributable to brake pipe corrosion advisories and tyre wear, all of which were carried forward as advisories when the vehicle subsequently passed four days later. The earlier February 2018 failure related to washer fluid delivery and insecure registration plate lamps, both easily rectifiable items, while the March 2020 failure concerned an inoperative main beam headlamp. No structural or corrosion advisories have been raised in recent tests, although the 2019 test did note corrosion to both rear wheel arches, which is worth monitoring given the vehicle's age. With 97,605 miles recorded on a 25 year old vehicle, the annual average of approximately 3,904 miles is notably low and suggests periods of either light use or extended standing. While low recorded mileage typically preserves internal engine and drivetrain components, prolonged inactivity often accelerates external deterioration through moisture ingress, brake disc corrosion from lack of use, and degradation of rubber and fluid components over time. The MOT history does not reveal any sharp mileage jumps that would indicate inconsistent odometer readings or rapid accumulation, but the gaps between tests and the age of the vehicle warrant attention to calendar-based wear items rather than purely mileage-driven concerns. Buyers should pay particular attention to the brake pipe corrosion advisories from 2022, as brake lines on a vehicle of this age are vulnerable to external rust and pitting, particularly along the underbody and behind wheel arch liners. On a test drive, listen for any brake pedal sponginess or grinding noises, and request a thorough inspection of the entire brake pipe run, including the rear nearside section which was specifically flagged, as corroded pipes can ultimately lead to fluid leaks and brake failure. The front brake disc advisory from 2018 is now several years old and discs will have continued to wear; check for scoring, lipping, and uneven pad deposits, and test for brake shudder under firm application from speed. The noted front tyre wear on both sides suggests possible tracking misalignment or worn suspension components, so inspect for uneven inner or outer shoulder wear on any current tyres and verify there is no excessive play in the front wheel bearings or track rod ends. Given the vehicle's age and low usage profile, prospective buyers should conduct several age-related inspections even where MOT records are sparse. Examine all four tyres, including any spare, for sidewall perishing and cracking from age, as rubber degrades regardless of tread depth. Check the 12 volt battery for signs of slow cranking or voltage drop, particularly if the vehicle has stood for extended periods, and verify recent replacement. Inspect under the vehicle and within the wheel arches for standing corrosion, paying close attention to the rear wheel arches noted in 2019, floor pans, jacking locations, and suspension components such as coil springs, bushes, and shock absorbers, which may have deteriorated through inactivity. Confirm that brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil have been changed according to calendar intervals rather than mileage, as fluids degrade with time, and ensure the service book contains stamps corroborating the low recorded mileage and any recent cambelt or timing chain attention given the vehicle's 25 year of use.