2014 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · CA14 XAX

The most recent DVSA MOT test, conducted on 4 August 2026, resulted in a pass, though the examiner recorded three advisories relating to the suspension system. Specifically, both rear trailing arm bushes were noted as worn without resulting in excessive movement, the nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint was identified as having slight play, and the nearside front shock absorber was noted to have a light misting of oil. While the vehicle has passed each subsequent annual test since 2021, the trend over the past two years shows a clear deterioration in the front and rear suspension condition, as evidenced by a failed test on 6 June 2025 for an excessively worn offside front ball joint and a shock absorber with negligible damping effect, alongside subsequent advisories on the nearside items. This pattern, combined with a binding nearside front brake and weeping grease from a deteriorated ball joint dust cover, indicates that the front suspension and braking assemblies are accumulating wear and are likely approaching a point where component replacement will be required to maintain roadworthiness. With 130,525 miles recorded over approximately twelve years, this Fiesta has covered an average of around 10,877 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age and class. The mileage progression across the MOT records appears reasonably consistent with no obvious extended gaps that would suggest long periods of standing, nor any rapid accumulation that would indicate excessive motorway or commercial use. At this mileage, mechanical focus should remain on the consumable and wear items typical for a high-mileage supermini, including the clutch, gearbox mounts, timing chain or belt service intervals, and the general condition of the exhaust system, though no exhaust or drivetrain defects have been recorded on the DVSA history. Given the recurring suspension advisories over consecutive tests, a prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the front and rear suspension assemblies during a physical inspection and test drive. On the road, listen for any clonks, knocking, or rattling noises from the front when traversing speed bumps or uneven surfaces, as this would suggest the worn ball joints and trailing arm bushes have progressed beyond the advisory stage. The nearside front shock absorber oil misting has now been recorded on three separate occasions since 2022, indicating an ongoing seal degradation; test for reduced ride damping by pushing down firmly on each front corner to check for slow, uncontrolled rebound, and listen for any hydraulic whining or unusual suspension noise. Inspect the brake feel on test, particularly on the nearside front, as binding can lead to uneven pad wear, pulling under braking, or a hot wheel hub after driving, and verify that the nearside rear stop lamp is functioning correctly given its recent failure. Beyond the recorded defects, the high overall mileage and twelve-year age warrant a comprehensive check of time-sensitive service items that may not be captured on the MOT record. Examine the tyres closely for both legal tread depth and signs of age-related sidewall perishing or cracking, particularly if the vehicle has stood for any period, as rubber degrades regardless of wear. The 12V battery should be load-tested, as a unit of this age is highly susceptible to cold-weather failure. Inspect the brake discs for lipping, corrosion, or hot spots indicative of a binding caliper, and verify that the coolant, brake fluid, and engine oil have been changed in line with calendar intervals, as fluids degrade chemically over time even with low annual mileage. Finally, confirm a full service history with corresponding stamps and receipts, and ensure any previous advisory items have been rectified with documented replacement parts rather than simply being observed and passed through subsequent tests.