2002 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Diesel · CK52 YRM

The vehicle presents a concerning maintenance trend that is worsening as it approaches its current date in July 2026. While the most recent test on 29 April 2026 at 130,367 miles resulted in a pass, the record shows a significant failure just one day prior on 28 April 2026. The vehicle has transitioned from managing minor consumable issues to facing systemic structural and mechanical degradation. The recent pass is heavily qualified by numerous advisories regarding widespread corrosion across the subframes, all four coil springs, and multiple brake pipes, indicating that the vehicle is entering a phase of significant structural decay. The mileage pattern shows a relatively low usage profile for a 24-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 5,400 miles per year. Between the December 2018 test at 118,987 miles and the February 2021 test at 123,401 miles, the car covered roughly 4,400 miles over two years. However, the recorded data suggests the vehicle may have spent periods stationary, which often correlates with the type of corrosion and seized components seen in the history. The low annual mileage does not appear to have prevented the progressive deterioration of the chassis and braking system. A prospective buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle's underside, specifically focusing on the structural integrity of the front and rear subframes. The MOT history reveals a persistent pattern of corrosion that has escalated from minor underside rust in 2018 to serious weakening of the anti-roll bar mounting brackets and subframes in 2026. The recurring issues with corroded brake pipes and the history of binding brakes, including an excessive binding condition flagged in April 2026, suggest the braking system is unreliable and may require a complete overhaul of the lines and hardware. Mechanical attention should also be directed toward the suspension and drivetrain. The record shows a history of failing coil springs and split CV boots, alongside ongoing oil leaks from the gearbox and sump area dating back to 2015. Although the vehicle passed its most recent test, the sheer volume of advisories regarding corroded suspension components and brake pipes indicates that while the car is technically roadworthy, it is nearing a point where repair costs may outweigh its value. Any inspection must verify that the reported subframe corrosion has not progressed beyond the levels noted in the April 2026 advisory.