2011 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · CE11 FSY

The Ford Fiesta achieved a PASS on its most recent MOT test conducted on 6 March 2026, although the inspection did note five advisory items that warrant close attention. Evaluating the trajectory of the recent MOT history reveals a broadly stable maintenance trend, but one that is slowly accumulating wear-related advisories rather than improving. The 2024 test included a Major failure for a nearside rear tyre cut exceeding the legal requirements, which was rectified for the subsequent test, and the advisory recorded alongside it regarding a slightly rough steering system has now progressed into detectable free play at the steering wheel. This gradual escalation in steering-related observations across successive tests, combined with recurring rear sub-frame and tyre perishing advisories, indicates a vehicle that is increasingly presenting age-related wear and would benefit from focused mechanical attention to the steering and suspension assemblies. With a recorded mileage of 70,253 miles over approximately fifteen years, this Fiesta has covered an average of around 4,684 miles annually, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age. Such low annual usage can reflect genuine light use, but it also raises the strong likelihood of extended periods of standing, which introduces particular mechanical concerns. Prolonged inactivity tends to accelerate corrosion on brake discs, leading to binding calipers, and can degrade the 12V battery through repeated partial discharge cycles. Brake fluid and coolant can also suffer from calendar-based degradation independent of mileage, as their hygroscopic and chemical properties deteriorate over time regardless of use. A buyer should verify that time-based servicing has been performed regardless of the low odometer reading. Several recurring defects require direct attention. The persistent advisories for tyre cracking and perishing across both front and rear axles suggest that all four tyres are likely approaching the end of their safe working life, as rubber degradation from age typically affects a complete set simultaneously on a low-mileage vehicle. The advisories for corroded rear coil springs recorded in 2025 and the worn rear sub-frame pins and bushes noted in 2026 indicate progressive deterioration in the rear suspension; on a test drive, the buyer should listen for clonking or knocking noises from the rear over uneven surfaces and observe whether the rear end feels unsettled over bumps. The steering rack free play advisory is particularly important to monitor, as worsening play at the steering wheel can lead to imprecise handling, uneven or feathered front tyre wear, and ultimately a failure on a future MOT. The vehicle should be inspected for any signs of power steering fluid leakage and the front tyres examined for irregular inner or outer wear patterns that might suggest the steering geometry or rack is deteriorating further. In addition to addressing the recorded advisories, practical age-appropriate checks should be undertaken given this vehicle's profile. All tyre sidewalls should be examined closely for perishing cracks, particularly on the rear axle where this issue has been repeatedly flagged, and replacement of all four tyres should be budgeted for even if they retain legal tread depth. The brake discs and calipers should be visually inspected for surface rust and ensure the caliper sliders are free, as corrosion from standing can cause the pads to drag and lead to uneven braking or pulling to one side. The battery should be load-tested given the likelihood of standing periods, and the brake fluid, coolant, and if applicable the power steering fluid should be confirmed as recently renewed regardless of the low recorded mileage. Finally, it is advisable to verify a complete service history with documented stamps, and to confirm that cambelt and water pump replacement intervals have been observed on a time rather than mileage basis, as calendar age alone places this vehicle firmly within the recommended renewal window for these critical driveline components.