2005 Ford Fusion 1.4L Diesel · CE55 CHJ

Recurring tyre wear on the nearside front is the most prominent mechanical observation, with the 2024 MOT noting the tyre “worn close to legal limit” and the same advisory appearing in the 2023 test, alongside a similar warning for the nearside rear that year. Both examinations were passed without any failures, and the only additional items were a crack in the front windscreen (2024) and slight damage to the off‑side front seat‑belt webbing (2023). The absence of outright failures suggests the vehicle has remained roadworthy, but the repeat tyre advisories indicate that the tyre set is approaching the end of its serviceable life and should be addressed promptly. At 121,430 miles recorded over roughly 21 years, the average annual accumulation is about 5,800 mi, well below the typical usage rate for a vehicle of this age. Such low mileage often points to lighter duty or periods of inactivity, which can preserve engine and drivetrain components but does not halt the ageing of rubber parts. Tyres, seals and belts can deteriorate with time even when mileage is modest, so the observed tyre wear may reflect calendar ageing as much as road use. No large mileage spikes or gaps appear in the MOT history, reinforcing the notion of steady, low‑intensity usage. When inspecting the car, concentrate first on the tyre condition: verify tread depth exceeds the legal 1.6 mm minimum, look for sidewall cracks, bulges or uneven wear that could indicate mis‑alignment or suspension issues. A test‑drive should reveal any vibration at higher speeds, especially on the nearside, and any pulling to one side that might suggest worn or damaged suspension bushes. Examine the front windscreen crack closely for any propagation or moisture ingress; a growing crack can compromise structural integrity and may require replacement. The off‑side front seat‑belt webbing should be pulled taut to confirm it is not frayed beyond the advisory level and that the latch operates smoothly. Beyond the flagged items, a comprehensive visual check for rust on wheel arches, under‑body panels and suspension mounting points remains prudent, as prolonged low‑usage periods can hide corrosion. Confirm that the brake discs and pads appear within acceptable thickness and that the pedal feels firm without judder, since no brake‑related advisories have been recorded but wear can progress unnoticed. A thorough test‑drive covering a range of speeds, braking situations and cornering will help reveal any latent issues before finalising the purchase.