2002 Ford Puma 1.7L Petrol · AX02 OHO

The 2002 Ford Puma presents a stable and reassuring roadworthiness profile. The most recent MOT, conducted on 7 November 2025 at 102,619 miles, passed with zero defects recorded. This clean sheet follows a pattern of consistent passes, with the only blemish being a failed test on 17 September 2024 at 102,613 miles, which notably lists no defects, suggesting an administrative or procedural failure rather than a mechanical one. The maintenance trend is firmly stable, indicating a vehicle that has been kept in good order. The mileage pattern is highly unusual and warrants careful scrutiny. Between the test on 11 May 2023 at 103,474 miles and the test on 7 November 2025 at 102,619 miles, the recorded mileage has actually decreased by 855 miles over a period of two and a half years. This is physically impossible under normal circumstances and strongly suggests a mileage discrepancy, likely from a previous odometer replacement or a data entry error in the DVSA system. The vehicle appears to have covered negligible miles since mid-2023, which is a very low annualised figure even for a 24-year-old car. While low mileage generally implies less wear, prolonged periods of inactivity can cause its own issues, such as deteriorated rubber components, stale fuel, and corroded brake discs from standing. A buyer must verify the true mileage and service history before purchase. The MOT records alone cannot explain the backward odometer, so a thorough check of any service invoices, old MOT certificates, and the physical condition of the vehicle is essential. The lack of any advisories or failures for corrosion, suspension wear, or braking defects across multiple tests is a positive sign for structural integrity, but the mileage anomaly casts doubt on the entire history. In person, the inspection should focus on components that degrade with age and lack of use, not just mileage. Check the condition of all suspension bushes, coil springs, and shock absorbers for perishing or leaks, as these can deteriorate from standing. Inspect the brake discs and pads for surface corrosion, and examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, as the date codes may reveal they are older than expected. The exhaust system and underbody should be checked for corrosion, particularly given the vehicle's age. Ultimately, the clean MOT record is encouraging, but the mileage discrepancy is a significant red flag that demands a full provenance investigation.