2020 Ford Puma ST-Line X First ED + Mhev 1.0L Petrol · AX69 FPJ

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 2026-01-12 confirms it passed without defects, though it was previously failed on 2026-01-09 at just four miles higher—an unusually tight margin that suggests either a minor oversight in pre-test preparation or a single overlooked component. The trend over the past two years remains stable, with no recurring advisories or defects beyond the single 2026 failure, which was rectified before the subsequent pass. The absence of structural or drivetrain advisories in any test implies no long-term neglect, but the rapid back-to-back failure warrants scrutiny of components prone to sudden failure, such as brake calipers, wheel bearings, or suspension mounts. The recorded mileage of 29,192 miles over six years equates to approximately 4,865 miles annually, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age and category. This pattern suggests prolonged periods of inactivity or very light use, which could either mitigate wear on high-mileage components or introduce issues like flat spots on tyres, stiff suspension joints, or degraded fluids from extended storage. Notably, the gap between the 2024 and 2025 tests—spanning roughly 6,300 miles—shows no intermediate failures, reinforcing the likelihood of minimal real-world stress on the drivetrain. However, the sudden spike in mileage between the 2024 failure and the 2025 pass (from 17,917 to 24,220 miles in under a year) hints at a possible change in usage, which could have accelerated wear on consumables like brake pads or suspension bushes. Given the lack of recorded defects, the primary focus for an in-person inspection should centre on the brake system, particularly the rear calipers and discs, given the 2026 failure’s proximity to the pass. The tester flagged binding rear brakes, which could indicate seized calipers, warped discs, or contaminated brake fluid—all conditions that may not always appear in routine MOT checks but can develop rapidly. Suspension components, including coil springs, bushes, and track arms, should be examined for excessive play or corrosion, especially if the vehicle has spent extended periods stationary. Additionally, the MHEV hybrid system’s high-voltage battery and associated wiring should be visually inspected for signs of degradation or corrosion, as these are not routinely tested in MOTs but can pose safety risks if compromised. Finally, the tyres, despite no recorded issues, should be checked for uneven wear or embedded debris, as low mileage can mask subtle damage from prolonged standing.