2015 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Diesel · DF04 SOL

The latest MOT test on 25 February 2025 resulted in a pass, although it introduced several advisories regarding tyre wear and exhaust corrosion. Reviewing the history since 2020, the vehicle has maintained a generally stable record with only minor failures related to lighting and a single steering component. However, the emergence of multiple advisories in the most recent test suggests a shift toward increasing wear on consumables and the exhaust system, indicating that the vehicle is entering a phase where more frequent and costly maintenance will be required to maintain roadworthiness. With 159,195 miles recorded over approximately eleven years, this vehicle has averaged roughly 14,472 miles per year. This is significantly higher than the typical UK average and implies heavy usage, likely consisting of sustained long-distance commuting. Mechanically, such high mileage places substantial stress on the drivetrain, engine internals, and suspension components. A prospective buyer should expect accelerated wear on the clutch, gearbox synchronisers, and engine mounts compared to a lower-mileage example of the same age, making a rigorous mechanical inspection essential. The recent advisories regarding the nearside front and rear tyres, coupled with a previous advisory for the offside front tyre, suggest a pattern of uneven wear or a lack of regular tyre rotation. During a test drive, the buyer should listen for abnormal road noise and check for steering drift, which could indicate a need for a professional four-wheel alignment. The recorded rust on the rear exhaust casing is a common age-related issue, but the buyer should physically inspect the piping for actual perforations or excessive corrosion that could lead to exhaust leaks, which typically manifest as a louder engine note or fumes entering the cabin. Given the high mileage and the previous failure of a track rod end, a thorough inspection of all suspension bushes, coil springs, and ball joints is critical. The buyer should feel for any vagueness in the steering or listen for clunking sounds when traversing uneven surfaces. It is also imperative to verify the service history to ensure the timing belt and water pump have been replaced according to the manufacturer's intervals, as failure of these components would be catastrophic. Finally, checking for oil leaks around the engine head gasket and ensuring the brake discs are not excessively lipped or corroded will provide a clearer picture of the vehicle's remaining mechanical integrity.