2011 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · CB53 NET

A pattern of progressive corrosion and recurring suspension advisories defines this 2011 Ford Fiesta, with the most recent test on 10 March 2026 revealing a central front subframe corroded but not seriously weakened, alongside a failed presentation test for incorrect colour direction indicators at both front lamp units. This advisory repeats an identical observation from the 2023 test, indicating the corrosion has not advanced beyond the advisory threshold but remains an ongoing deterioration point requiring continued monitoring. Across the recorded history, there have been four pass advisories specifically calling out front and rear coil spring corrosion between 2024 and 2025, with the 2024 entry describing the rear springs as heavily rusted on the lower coils. The two failures recorded in 2024 and 2025 are particularly significant: the 2024 test identified a dangerous defect for a missing rear fuel tank exhaust shield creating a fire hazard, and the 2025 test logged major rear suspension arm pin or bush failures at both nearside and offside positions, which represent the most concerning structural integrity items in the record. The recorded mileage of 77,323 miles over approximately fifteen years equates to an annual accumulation of around 5,150 miles, which is below average for the vehicle's age and suggests either prolonged periods of low use or extended standing. There are no conspicuous gaps in the annual MOT testing cycle from 2022 through 2026, indicating the car has been kept on the road consistently, though the lower annual mileage means components such as brake discs and tyres may have aged and corroded from environmental exposure rather than mechanical wear. The 2023 advisories flagged pitted and scored front brake discs, and the 2025 test noted an oil leak described as not excessive, both of which are consistent with a vehicle that has covered moderate mileage but suffered from surface deterioration due to time rather than use. For a prospective purchaser, the priority inspection points should be the rear suspension arm pins and bushes that were flagged as excessively worn in 2025, as these are load-bearing components that can produce knocking or clonking noises over uneven surfaces and imprecise handling responses during cornering. On a test drive, listen specifically for any rear suspension knocking or clunking on acceleration, braking, and over speed bumps, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns particularly on the inside edges, as the 2025 test recorded nearside front tyre wear close to the legal limit on the inner edge. The coil springs should be physically examined for advanced corrosion and any visible cracking or flaking of the lower coils, as the 2024 advisories specifically described heavy rust at these locations. Underneath the vehicle, the front subframe corrosion noted in 2023 and 2026 warrants close inspection with a torch and ideally a ramp, paying particular attention to mounting points, suspension pickup locations, and any structural bracing to confirm corrosion has not progressed beyond the advisory threshold. The oil leak recorded in 2025 should be traced to its source, as Ford Fiestas of this era commonly suffer from cam cover gasket and rear main seal weeping, and any fresh oil residue on the engine block or bellhousing should be evaluated. Finally, verify that the missing rear fuel tank exhaust shield identified as a dangerous defect in 2024 has been correctly refitted with appropriate fasteners, and inspect all fuel and brake lines for corrosion given the age and the recurring coil spring rust patterns observed throughout the history.