2018 Ford Fiesta 1.1L Petrol · BN18 DDA

The 2018 Ford Fiesta has maintained a stable roadworthiness record over the past three annual MOTs, with only minor and largely consumable-related advisories appearing in the most recent test. The February 2026 inspection at 47,438 miles identified worn front brake discs and thinning pads on the offside front, both issues that suggest gradual but manageable wear rather than sudden failure. No major structural or safety-critical faults have been recorded since March 2022, when a slightly noisy wheel bearing was noted—a condition that, if unresolved, could escalate into a suspension or steering hazard. The absence of defects in the three preceding tests (2024, 2025) indicates that any previous advisories were addressed promptly, reinforcing a pattern of responsible upkeep for core mechanical systems. The vehicle’s low annual mileage—averaging around 5,930 miles over its eight-year lifespan—points to either infrequent use or prolonged periods of inactivity. The 4,677-mile jump between the 2023 (34,959 miles) and 2024 (38,919 miles) tests suggests a brief but consistent period of driving, whereas the 3,842-mile interval from 2024 to 2025 implies a possible lull. Such variability could mean the car was stored for stretches, which may have contributed to the edge wear on the offside rear tyre in 2023—a common issue when vehicles sit unused for extended periods. The lack of rapid mileage accumulation reduces stress on high-wear components like brakes and suspension, though it also raises questions about whether fluids (coolant, brake fluid, oil) have been regularly checked and topped up during idle phases. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to scrutinise in person are the front brake system and wheel bearings. The recurring advisories on the offside front disc and pads—now appearing for the first time in February 2026—demand verification that they haven’t deteriorated further since the test. Binding or uneven braking could indicate deeper corrosion or seized calipers, particularly if the car has been exposed to moisture. The 2022 wheel bearing noise, while not repeated, warrants inspection for play or abnormal vibration, as bearing failure can compromise wheel retention. Beyond these, check for signs of corrosion in suspension mounts, coil springs, or control arms, especially if the car has spent time in damp conditions. The clean MOT history since 2022 is encouraging, but the recent brake advisories and the tyre wear pattern from 2023 suggest that a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is advisable to confirm no deferred maintenance risks lurk beneath the surface.