2015 Ford Fiesta 1.5L Diesel · CV15 VCE

The most recent DVSA MOT entry for this 2015 Ford Fiesta shows a pass recorded on 27 April 2026 with no advisories, but a corresponding failure notice from the same date reveals that the vehicle had earlier been presented with several serious defects that were subsequently rectified to achieve a pass. The failures included dangerous tyre tread depths below the legal 1.6mm minimum on both front tyres, a near-side front steering linkage ball joint with excessive play, a worn lower suspension arm ball joint on the same side, and an exhaust emissions exceedance. While the current pass is reassuring, the presence of two dangerous-level tyre failures on the same test is a notable concern that suggests tyre condition has been neglected. The pattern across 2023 to 2026 shows recurrent lighting defects including non-functioning headlamps and position lamps, a fractured near-side rear coil spring, worn track rod end and suspension ball joints, a malfunctioning tyre pressure monitoring system, ineffective wipers, and an insufficient washer system. This recurrence of front suspension and steering wear, particularly on the near-side, indicates ongoing chassis component degradation rather than isolated incidents, and the maintenance picture is best characterised as worsening rather than stable. With 131,954 miles recorded on an eleven-year-old vehicle, the Fiesta has covered approximately 11,996 miles per year on average, which is broadly typical for a car of this age and segment. The MOT history does not show extended standing periods between tests, with annual or biennial presentations throughout its life, suggesting reasonably consistent use rather than long periods of inactivity. Consistent usage is generally beneficial for mechanical components as it prevents issues associated with standing, such as brake disc corrosion, seized calipers, and fluid degradation, though it does mean higher wear rates on consumables and chassis parts. The relatively high absolute figure does, however, mean that wear-related items such as suspension bushes, ball joints, track rod ends, and coil springs will continue to require attention, as evidenced by the recent failures. Given the dangerous-level tyre failures and recurring front suspension and steering wear on the near-side, any prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough physical inspection of the front axle. The near-side front steering linkage ball joint, lower suspension arm ball joint, and track rod end have all previously failed for excessive play, and these components wear progressively, so listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, and check for uneven tyre wear across the front axle which often accompanies worn suspension joints. Both front tyres had dropped below the legal 1.6mm tread depth, so inspect the remaining tread depth carefully across all four tyres and verify that replacements were of matching specification and size. The fractured rear coil spring previously recorded should prompt a check of all springs for any signs of corrosion cracking or sagging, as broken springs can allow the affected corner to sit lower and may indicate that the vehicle has been used on poor quality roads carrying heavy loads. The emissions failure on the most recent test merits investigation of the engine management system, lambda sensors, and catalytic converter function, as recurring emissions issues on a high-mileage 1.0 or 1.25 EcoBoost or Duratec petrol engine can indicate failing sensors, vacuum leaks, or exhaust system deterioration, and the advisory noted on the 2025 test for a corroded rear exhaust silencer suggests the full exhaust system should be physically inspected for corrosion and integrity, particularly at mounting points and joints. Recurring headlamp failures, non-functioning position lamps, washer insufficiency, and wiper ineffectiveness point to potential underlying electrical gremlins, a failing multi-function switch, or simply deferred maintenance of low-cost items, all of which should be checked for current correct operation. With high mileage and eleven years of service, the timing belt or chain service history should be verified along with recent replacement of the coolant, brake fluid, and spark plugs according to manufacturer schedules. Beyond the recorded defects, age-related items such as 12V battery health, alternator output, brake disc lipping and pad wear, and tyre sidewall cracking or perishing from age rather than wear should all be examined, and a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a competent independent garage is strongly advised before committing to purchase.