2018 Ford Fiesta 1.1L Petrol · BU68 ACJ

The 2018 Ford Fiesta’s most recent MOT test on 17 April 2025—just under a year ago—confirmed full roadworthiness with no defects recorded at 115,786 miles. This suggests the vehicle has maintained a stable mechanical condition over the past 12 months, with no recurring or escalating issues. The absence of advisories or failings in the last two tests implies that critical components such as suspension bushes, coil springs, and binding brake calipers have not deteriorated significantly. However, the 2024 failure on 1 May—just seven days before its subsequent pass—stands out as an anomaly, though no defects were logged, which may indicate a minor oversight rather than a persistent problem. The mileage progression reveals an unusually aggressive usage pattern for a vehicle of this age. Between the March 2022 test at 26,552 miles and the March 2023 test at 79,479 miles, the car accumulated 52,927 miles in just over a year, averaging over 44,000 miles annually—a rate far exceeding typical expectations for a car of this vintage. This rapid accumulation suggests either consistent heavy use or prolonged periods of neglect between services. The gap between the 2023 and 2024 tests, where mileage jumped from 79,479 to 108,932 in under a year, further underscores this pattern. Such high mileage per annum places additional stress on consumable parts like tyres, brake discs, and suspension components, which may now require closer scrutiny. Given the lack of recorded defects, the most prudent areas for a prospective buyer to inspect in person are the suspension geometry and alignment, particularly the rear suspension bushes and ball joints, which often degrade under high mileage. The brakes, though not failed, warrant examination for uneven wear or binding calipers, especially if the vehicle has been driven aggressively. Corrosion around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe should also be assessed, as prolonged exposure to road salt or moisture accelerates structural weakening. Finally, the exhaust system—particularly at the rear—should be checked for leaks or excessive rust, as emissions systems can fail silently without visible defects. The absence of MOT advisories does not preclude these areas from requiring attention.