2018 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · AV68 MUP

The most recent DVSA examination on 5 March 2026 resulted in a pass, though three advisories were issued that warrant attention. The nearside front road wheel was noted as slightly distorted, the front service brake was recorded as fluctuating without being excessive, and both front brake discs were flagged as worn though not excessively. Reviewing the trajectory of advisories over the past four test cycles reveals a broadly consistent pattern rather than dramatic deterioration. The 2024 and 2023 tests already documented wear across all four brake discs and rear brake pads, so the continuation of brake component advisories in the latest test is an expected progression rather than a sudden concern. The notable exception is the March 2025 dangerous failure for a nearside rear tyre below the legal 1.6mm tread depth, which was subsequently rectified to allow a pass on the same date. Overall, the maintenance trend suggests a vehicle that has been kept roadworthy but is showing cumulative wear on consumable braking and tyre components consistent with its age and mileage. With 53,929 miles recorded over approximately eight years, this Ford Fiesta has covered an average of roughly 6,741 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its class and age. The MOT history shows mileage progression has been steady rather than erratic, with no significant gaps suggesting extended periods of standing unused, nor any rapid accumulation that would indicate unusually hard service such as motorway mileage or fleet use. This moderate annual mileage generally points to a mixture of urban and suburban driving with occasional longer journeys, a usage profile that typically subjects suspension and braking components to moderate wear without accelerated fatigue. The absence of any mileage irregularities means the recorded wear items are consistent with what one would expect from a Fiesta of this age and accumulated use. Given the recurring brake-related advisories across multiple test cycles, a prospective buyer should conduct a focused inspection of the braking system. The front discs were last flagged as worn but not excessively in March 2026, and since brake discs and pads tend to wear together, it would be prudent to measure remaining pad material and disc thickness directly, as advisories often signal that replacement is approaching within the next service interval. On a test drive, listen for any brake shudder through the steering wheel or pedal under firm braking, which would indicate disc runout or thickness variation, and check whether the car pulls to one side suggesting a binding caliper. The rear brake pads were noted as wearing thin in both 2023 and 2024, so confirm whether these have since been renewed; uneven rear pad wear can also indicate a sticking caliper mechanism. The slightly distorted nearside front wheel noted in March 2026 should be inspected closely, as a deformed wheel can cause vibration, uneven tyre wear, and potential steering instability, and depending on severity may require replacement rather than refurbishment. Beyond the documented items, age-appropriate checks remain important for a vehicle of this vintage approaching nine years old. Inspect all four tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, as rubber degrades with age regardless of tread depth, and verify that replacements are of matching specification. Examine the exhaust system for corrosion at the mounting points, pipe joints, and the rear silencer, areas prone to rust on Fiesta models of this generation. The 12V battery should be tested for cranking performance, as batteries typically require replacement within five to seven years. Verify the service book stamps to confirm that brake fluid has been changed at least once during ownership, given that fluid is hygroscopic and should be renewed every two to three years regardless of mileage, and check that coolant and engine oil have been serviced at appropriate intervals. Finally, inspect the underside and wheel arches for any corrosion that may have developed from winter road salt exposure, paying particular attention to suspension components, subframe mounting points, and brake lines, as these are common corrosion hotspots on UK-operated Fiestas of this era.