2017 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · CF17 MVR

The most recent MOT test on 16 July 2026 resulted in a pass, but it is worth noting that this came immediately after a failure on the same date for non-functioning nearside and offside rear stop lamps, which were subsequently rectified prior to the pass being issued. The recent history shows a broadly stable but increasingly advisory-laden pattern, with the vehicle passing every annual test from 2020 through 2026 without any structural failures or dangerous defects. However, the number of advisories has gradually increased year on year, particularly around rear axle suspension bushes and front tyre wear, indicating that while the car remains roadworthy, several wear items are accumulating and will likely require attention within the next service interval. The recurring sub-frame pin and bush advisories, now appearing across multiple consecutive tests, suggest progressive wear of the rear suspension mounting components that will eventually warrant replacement. With a recorded mileage of 36,255 miles over approximately nine years, this Fiesta has covered only around 4,028 miles annually, which is significantly below the typical average for a vehicle of this age and points to either limited use or extended periods of standing. While low mileage reduces wear on major drivetrain components such as the clutch, engine internals and gearbox, it introduces its own set of age-related concerns. Extended standing periods can lead to brake disc corrosion, binding calipers from seized pistons, deterioration of rubber seals and hoses, and degradation of fluids that age calendar-wise rather than mileage-wise. The consistency of the annual MOT dates, all falling in July, suggests the vehicle has been used regularly enough to avoid prolonged inactivity, which is positive, but the low overall mileage still warrants careful inspection of time-sensitive components. Given the recurring advisories on the rear sub-frame pins and bushes, a prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the rear suspension on a test drive. Listen for any clonking or knocking noises over speed humps, uneven road surfaces or during tight cornering, as these would indicate that the wear has progressed beyond the advisory threshold. Visually inspect the rear axle mounting area for any cracking, splitting or excessive movement in the bushes, and check for uneven tyre wear across the rear axle, which can result from compromised suspension geometry. The front tyre edge wear advisories noted on both the 2025 and 2026 tests suggest tracking or camber issues, so it would be prudent to have the wheel alignment checked and to inspect the front tyres for feathering or one-sided wear patterns before purchase. Beyond the advisory-related checks, several age and mileage-appropriate inspections should be carried out. Examine all four tyres carefully for sidewall cracking, perishing or oxidation, as tyres degrade with age regardless of tread depth, and any date codes exceeding six years from manufacture should prompt replacement regardless of remaining tread. Check the 12V battery health, as low-mileage vehicles with frequent short journeys often suffer from chronically undercharged batteries leading to premature failure. Inspect the brake discs for any visible lipping, surface corrosion or pitting, and verify that the calipers release fully to prevent uneven pad wear. Confirm the service history to ensure that brake fluid, coolant and engine oil have been changed at calendar-appropriate intervals rather than purely mileage-based schedules, as these fluids degrade over time. Finally, verify that the rear number plate lamp, all stop lamps and the registration plate itself are in good working order, and ensure that the previously noted offside wing mirror glass damage has not deteriorated further.