2015 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · BN15 ABF

The latest DVSA MOT test for this 2015 Ford Fiesta was conducted on 2026-04-09 and resulted in a clean pass, indicating no defects or advisories were recorded. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a concerning pattern of wear-related failures and advisories, particularly in the suspension and tyre systems. The 2024-04-08 MOT marked a critical failure with both front suspension ball joints classified as major defects, suggesting severe wear that could compromise steering stability and vehicle control. The tyre failures from the same test—both nearside and offside front tyres exhibiting tread depths below the legal minimum—highlight persistent underinflation or excessive road contact, which accelerates tyre degradation and increases the risk of hydroplaning. While the intervening MOTs in 2023 and 2025 were clean, the recurrence of these issues points to underlying mechanical fatigue, potentially linked to either poor maintenance or cumulative stress from high-mileage usage. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 73,229 miles at 11 years old aligns with a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,657 miles per year, which is typical for a car of this age and class. However, the gap between the 2024 failure and the 2026 MOT—around two years—suggests either a period of reduced use or a delay in addressing critical wear, which could exacerbate further damage if left unchecked. High-mileage vehicles of this age are particularly susceptible to accelerated wear in suspension components, brakes, and drivetrain elements, where repeated stress cycles contribute to premature failure. The suspension ball joints, in particular, are prone to failure due to the constant articulation required for cornering and road irregularities, and their replacement is often necessary before they reach critical limits. Given the history of suspension and tyre defects, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front suspension system. Visually check for any signs of oil staining around the ball joints, which may indicate leakage from the joint seals, and listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises when driving over bumps or at low speeds—symptoms of worn or broken suspension bushes or loose suspension arms. The front tyres should be examined for uneven wear patterns, particularly on the inner edges, which may indicate misalignment or camber issues stemming from worn suspension components. A test drive should include acceleration, braking, and cornering to assess for any binding in the steering wheel, excessive play in the wheel alignment, or a loss of handling responsiveness, all of which could be linked to failing ball joints. Immediate attention to these issues is advised, as further deterioration could lead to dangerous steering failure or tyre blowouts. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should also conduct a comprehensive physical and functional inspection of the vehicle. Given the age and mileage, the tyre sidewalls should be inspected for signs of cracking or perishing, which can weaken the rubber and reduce its ability to withstand road impacts. The brake system should be checked for corrosion on the discs and linings, particularly if the vehicle has been left stationary for extended periods, as standing fluid can cause caliper binding or brake pad warping. The 12-volt battery should be tested for voltage output and overall health, as older vehicles are more prone to electrical failures due to internal degradation. Additionally, fluid levels—particularly the engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid—should be verified, with a note taken on their condition and colour, as fluid degradation over time can lead to engine or transmission damage. If the vehicle has a service history, the buyer should verify that the manufacturer-recommended service intervals, particularly for the suspension and tyre maintenance, have been adhered to. Finally, a professional inspection of the exhaust emissions system is advisable, as older vehicles may require periodic adjustments to meet current emissions standards, especially if the engine has been modified or the vehicle has accumulated high mileage.