2010 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · DG10 AAA

The most recent MOT on 15 September 2025 was a clean pass with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle presently satisfies the statutory safety and emissions requirements. Over the preceding three years the record shows a pattern of minor advisories – principally rear‑suspension corrosion and sub‑frame bush wear – and a single failure in 2022 that related to lighting and a damaged door. The absence of any new advisories at the latest test suggests that the condition of the car has either stabilised or improved, assuming any remedial work identified in earlier tests has been carried out. At 101,242 miles the Fiesta averages roughly 6,300 miles per annum, which is typical for a 2010 model and points to a moderate usage profile rather than high‑stress, high‑kilometre operation. The relatively modest annual mileage also raises the possibility that the vehicle has spent periods of inactivity, a factor that can accelerate age‑related degradation such as rubber perishing, battery sulphation and corrosion on suspension components. Nevertheless, the mileage is sufficient to have exercised the drivetrain, brakes and tyres, so wear on those consumables should be expected in line with the vehicle’s age. When inspecting the car, give particular attention to the rear suspension where two advisories have recurred: coil‑spring corrosion and sub‑frame pin or bush wear. Examine the rear coil springs for surface rust, cracks or loss of stiffness, and check the rear sub‑frame for any looseness by applying firm pressure to the rear wheel arches and listening for clunks or feeling for excessive play in the rear axle. On a test drive, listen for rattles or thuds when traversing bumps, and watch for any deviation in rear wheel alignment that could indicate deteriorated bushes. The damaged off‑side front door noted in 2022 should be inspected for compromised weather‑tightness, rust ingress around the latch and any impact on side‑impact structural integrity. Verify that all exterior lighting now functions correctly, as the previous headlamp and indicator faults were likely remedied after the 2022 failure. Given the car’s age, conduct age‑related checks irrespective of mileage. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or hardening, especially on the front tyres which bear the steering load. Test the 12‑volt battery with a load tester or have it checked at a garage, as prolonged standing can reduce cranking power. Examine the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or uneven wear, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding – a common issue on vehicles that have spent long periods idle. Finally, confirm that the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been replaced within the recommended intervals, as fluids degrade over time even without high mileage, and look for any signs of leaks around the engine bay, sump and rear sub‑frame. A thorough visual and road‑test appraisal covering these points will give a prospective buyer a clear picture of the Fiesta’s current roadworthiness and any imminent maintenance that may be required.