2004 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · AX04 WGU

The most recent MOT, carried out on 1 November 2023, was passed but returned a series of advisories covering the off‑side rear wheel bearing, front lower suspension arm ball‑joint dust cover, front anti‑roll‑bar linkage dust cover, near‑side front tyre tread and near‑side rear coil spring corrosion. Over the past five years the vehicle has moved from occasional failures (notably the 2019 off‑side front lower arm and the 2021 headlamp aim failures) to a pattern of minor but persistent advisories. While no major defects have re‑appeared since the 2021 failures were rectified, the recurrence of wheel‑bearing play, suspension dust‑cover deterioration and coil‑spring corrosion indicates a maintenance trend that is stable but showing gradual wear rather than improvement. At 123,873 mi the Fiesta averages roughly 5 600 mi per annum, well below the typical usage for a 22‑year‑old small car. Such low annual mileage often points to periods of infrequent use or long spells of storage, which can exacerbate age‑related degradation even when wear from distance is limited. The modest mileage reduces the likelihood of high‑stress component fatigue, yet it does not protect against corrosion of suspension components, rubber hardening in hoses and boots, or battery and fluid ageing that accompany calendar time. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the rear wheel bearing on the off‑side; a test drive should include a steady‑state cruise at 50‑60 mph and a gentle acceleration to listen for a low‑frequency hum or growl that may increase under load, and a static check for any perceptible play when the wheel is rocked. The front lower suspension arm and anti‑roll‑bar linkage dust covers are flagged as severely deteriorated, so the ball‑joint housings should be inspected for cracked or missing rubber, and the joints themselves should be checked for any clunk or looseness when the steering wheel is turned sharply or when the car is driven over a speed bump. The corroded coil springs, both rear near‑side and previously off‑side, should be examined for rust pitting that could weaken the spring steel; any unusual squeaks or a harsh ride may signal a compromised spring. The near‑side front tyre is reported close to the legal limit, so tread depth must be measured across the tread band and the sidewalls inspected for cracking, delamination or bulges, as tyre perishing can occur well before tread is exhausted on older tyres. Brake hoses on both sides have been noted as slightly deteriorated, so the brake pedal should feel firm without sponginess, and a visual inspection for cracks, swelling or fluid leakage around the hose fittings is advisable. The recurring oil leak advisory warrants a check for oil spots under the engine bay and verification that the oil level remains stable between fills. Beyond the specific MOT items, the car’s age demands a thorough calendar‑based inspection. All four tyres should be examined for sidewall dry‑rot, especially if the DOT code indicates they are older than six years, and tyre pressures verified. The 12 V battery is likely approaching the end of its service life; a load test or at‑least a voltage check after a short idle will reveal any weakness. Coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil (if applicable) should be replaced if not serviced within the last two years, as fluid degradation can lead to corrosion and reduced performance. Underbody rust, particularly around the rear suspension mounts, wheel arches and the chassis, should be inspected for any flaking paint or bubbling that could compromise structural integrity. Finally, confirm that the service book contains regular oil changes and any recommended suspension or brake component replacements, as a well‑documented service history will mitigate many of the age‑related risks identified.