2014 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · CE64 RTO

The most recent MOT, dated 1 April 2025, was passed, indicating that the major faults recorded on the 27 March 2025 test – faulty seat‑adjuster, non‑functioning horn, off‑side headlamp, rear stop lamp and excessive exhaust carbon‑monoxide – have been remedied to the examiner’s satisfaction. Over the preceding six years the vehicle has shown a generally stable maintenance record, with three clean passes (2023, 2022 and 2021) interspersed with isolated advisory notes and a single minor failure for the windscreen washer in 2021. The pattern suggests that the owner has addressed critical defects promptly, although recurring advisories on tyre wear, brake pad thickness and the tyre‑pressure monitoring system indicate areas that may need renewed attention. At 61 026 miles the Fiesta averages just over 5 000 miles per annum, a markedly low utilisation for a 2014 model. Such limited mileage often points to periods of infrequent use or prolonged storage, which can be as consequential as high mileage in terms of component ageing. Low annual mileage reduces wear on engine, transmission and suspension but can allow moisture to settle in brake discs, cause battery sulphation and accelerate rubber degradation in tyres, hoses and mounts. Prospective buyers should therefore treat the vehicle as a “low‑mileage, high‑age” example rather than a lightly used one. When inspecting the car, give particular focus to the items that have previously failed. Verify that the driver’s seat adjustment now moves freely both fore and aft, and that the horn produces a clear, audible tone on both the driver’s and passenger’s controls. Check that the off‑side headlamp illuminates correctly on dipped beam and that the rear stop lamp on the near side glows steadily; any intermittent operation may hint at corroded wiring or a failing bulb socket. A functional exhaust system should be free of excessive smoke and, if possible, a quick on‑board emissions check or a portable CO analyser can confirm that idle carbon‑monoxide levels are within specification, suggesting the catalytic converter and oxygen sensors are healthy. Examine the tyre tread on all four wheels – the 2022 advisories warned of wear close to the legal limit and edge wear, so ensure each tyre still exceeds 1.6 mm depth and shows no sidewall cracking, delamination or age‑related perishing (DOT code should be no older than six years). Inspect the front brake pads for remaining material; thin pads can lead to rotor scoring and reduced braking efficiency, so replacement may be imminent. Confirm that the tyre‑pressure monitoring system now reports correct pressures and that the dashboard indicator is extinguished, as a malfunction can mask under‑inflation and affect handling. Given the vehicle’s age, a thorough visual and tactile survey of age‑sensitive components is prudent. Look for corrosion on the chassis, under‑tray and suspension mounting points, especially if the car has been stored outdoors. Rubber bushings, engine mounts and CV joint boots should be supple, without cracks or leaking grease, as ageing rubber can cause clunking noises and premature wear. Test the 12 V battery voltage and, if possible, perform a load test; a battery that has sat idle for long periods may have reduced cranking power. Verify that service records show timely changes of engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and transmission fluid, as many fluids deteriorate on a calendar basis even when mileage is low. During a test drive, listen for any abnormal noises from the suspension, steering or drivetrain, feel for any vibration or shudder under braking, and ensure all warning lights – especially ABS, ESP and TPMS – remain off. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the Fiesta’s current roadworthiness and any near‑term maintenance that may be required.