2020 Ford Fiesta 1.5L Petrol · CD15 CAL

The most recent MOT test on the 2020 Ford Fiesta, conducted on 2026-01-13, resulted in a clean pass with no recorded defects, marking a positive turnaround from the previous year’s failures. While the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories related to rear brake components—specifically worn, pitted, or scored brake discs and thin brake pads—these issues were not present in the latest test, suggesting either effective maintenance intervention or a temporary reduction in wear. The failure in 2024-01-05, however, stands out as a critical outlier, with a dangerous dangerous defect—an offside front road wheel fracture—indicating a severe structural or mechanical failure that would have rendered the vehicle unsafe without immediate repair. This incident underscores the importance of addressing any past failures promptly and ensuring the integrity of critical components like wheels and suspension, which can degrade over time due to stress or misuse. The recorded mileage of 35,807 miles for a vehicle aged six years is notably low, averaging approximately 5,968 miles annually—a rate that typically reflects either light usage, long periods of stationary storage, or both. Such low mileage can mask wear on consumables like brake pads and discs, as they may not be subjected to frequent, high-demand braking cycles. However, the presence of consistent advisories on brake components in prior MOTs suggests that the vehicle may have been driven more heavily in the past, particularly during the periods when those defects were noted. This discrepancy raises concerns about whether the lower mileage figure is representative of actual usage or simply a result of the car being kept in a stationary state for extended periods, potentially leading to issues such as corrosion from standing fluid or binding components due to lack of movement. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the rear brakes, given the recurring advisories and the risk of progressive wear if not addressed. Visually check the rear brake discs for any further pitting, scoring, or thinning beyond the current advisories, and listen for uneven brake pedal travel or a spongy feel, which could indicate warped discs or low pad thickness. On a test drive, monitor for a soft or uneven braking response, especially when applying pressure to the rear wheels, as this may suggest uneven pad wear or binding calipers. Additionally, verify that the rear suspension components, such as bushes and springs, exhibit no excessive clunking or play, which could exacerbate brake pad wear. Given the front wheel fracture failure, ensure the front wheels and wheel bearings are inspected for signs of damage, corrosion, or excessive play, and confirm that the wheel nuts are securely tightened to prevent loosening over time. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should also conduct a thorough examination of the vehicle’s structural integrity and fluid condition. With the vehicle’s age and the potential for prolonged stationary periods, inspect the bodywork for signs of rust, particularly around the wheel arches, undercarriage, and wheel wells, where moisture can accumulate. Check the 12V battery for signs of corrosion on terminals and a healthy charge, as standing vehicles are prone to battery drain from parasitic loads or parasitic consumption. Fluid levels should be top-up to manufacturer specifications, with particular attention to the brake fluid, which can degrade over time due to moisture absorption, even when the vehicle is stationary. Lastly, verify that the service book or maintenance records are up-to-date, especially for fluid servicing intervals such as brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, which are critical for long-term reliability and roadworthiness.