2010 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · AV60 TPZ

The most recent MOT test on 12 February 2025 resulted in a pass with no defects recorded, which is a positive indication of the vehicle's current roadworthiness. However, evaluating the broader trend reveals a mixed picture. Between 2020 and 2022 the car passed three consecutive tests with only minor advisories relating to child seat fitment, a discoloured direction indicator, and slight front brake disc wear, suggesting a generally well-maintained condition during that period. From 2023 onwards there has been a notable escalation in suspension-related advisories, including lower suspension arm ball joint play and multiple coil spring corrosion advisories across both axles, culminating in a dangerous failure for excessively worn front tyres in February 2024. Although the most recent test is clean, the pattern of recurring chassis and suspension concerns indicates that the underlying wear issues have not been fully resolved and warrant close physical inspection before purchase. With approximately 102,347 miles recorded over 16 years, this Fiesta has covered roughly 6,400 miles annually, which sits comfortably within the typical range for a vehicle of its age. There are no significant gaps in the MOT history or evidence of extended standing periods, and the mileage progression between tests appears steady and consistent with regular road use. This continuous usage profile is mechanically favourable in many respects, as components such as seals, brake calipers, battery cells, and internal drivetrain parts are less likely to have suffered from corrosion or drying out associated with long periods of inactivity. The higher overall mileage does, however, place greater cumulative wear on consumable items including clutch, tyres, suspension bushes, engine mounts, and timing chain components, all of which should be evaluated with appropriate scrutiny. The recurring advisories on the coil springs across all four corners deserve particular attention. Coil spring corrosion on a 2010 Fiesta is a common age-related issue, and once visible corrosion is noted it tends to progress; eventually weakened or fractured springs can cause the vehicle to sit unevenly, produce clonking noises over bumps, and in severe cases lead to sudden loss of suspension support. On a test drive, listen for any knocking or rattling from the front and rear suspension, particularly over uneven surfaces, and visually inspect for any obvious height discrepancy between corners. The lower suspension arm ball joint play advisory from 2023 is another concern worth re-examining, as ball joint wear can produce vague steering, uneven front tyre wear, and audible clunks under load. A pre-purchase inspection should involve the vehicle being raised to allow the ball joints and bushes to be checked for excessive movement by hand, as well as a check for perished or cracked suspension rubber. The dangerous tyre tread failure in February 2024 highlights the importance of verifying current tyre condition rather than relying on MOT dates. Inspect the front tyres for both legal tread depth and any uneven wear patterns that may suggest misalignment or suspension geometry issues stemming from the worn components previously noted. The advisory regarding a slightly distorted offside front road wheel should also be physically inspected for any lateral run-out, vibration through the steering wheel at speed, or evidence of kerbing damage. Beyond the recorded defects, a vehicle of this age and mileage should have its 12V battery load-tested, coolant and brake fluid checked for age-related degradation, and the timing chain and clutch operation assessed, as these are common failure points on higher-mileage petrol Fiestas. Finally, confirm a full service history with evidence of regular cambelt replacement, as the 16-year interval places this critical maintenance item well within its expected renewal window.