2017 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · DP17 AAZ

A pattern of recurring component wear and a significant safety failure in mid-2025 defines the mechanical history of this Ford Fiesta, though the most recent test on 11 June 2026 shows a return to a clean pass with no defects. The vehicle experienced a period of notable mechanical decline during the 2025 inspection, which resulted in a dangerous failure due to critically thin front brake pads and a structural tyre bulge on the nearside rear. This failure was accompanied by a major exhaust leak at the flexi-pipe. While the 2026 result suggests these specific issues have been rectified, the preceding years show a consistent trend of advisories regarding brake disc deterioration and trailing arm bush wear, indicating that while the car is currently compliant, it has a history of running components close to their legal or functional limits. The recorded mileage of 68,243 miles over approximately nine years represents an average annual accumulation of roughly 7,583 miles. This usage profile is typical for a small hatchback and suggests the vehicle has been used for regular, moderate commuting rather than intensive long-distance driving or extensive periods of stationary storage. Mechanically, this level of usage means that while the engine and drivetrain are unlikely to have excessive mileage-related wear, the vehicle is at an age where consumable items such as suspension bushes, brake discs, and exhaust components naturally reach the end of their service life. The consistency of the mileage suggests a predictable wear pattern rather than sudden, heavy-duty usage. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the suspension and braking systems during a test drive to ensure the previous advisories have been fully addressed. The MOT history frequently flagged trailing arm bushes on both the nearside and offside rear, so listen for dull knocks or clunks when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, which could indicate that the bushes have not been replaced or are failing again. Additionally, given the history of pitted and scored brake discs alongside the dangerous failure for thin pads, perform a thorough check for any pedal judder or vibration under braking, which would suggest uneven disc wear or warped rotors. The structural integrity of the tyres and the exhaust system also require immediate physical inspection. Although the 2025 failure for a tyre bulge and an exhaust flexi-pipe leak has been cleared in the latest test, you should visually inspect the sidewalls of all tyres for any signs of bulging or cracking and listen for any disproportionate engine noise or increased cabin drone that might indicate a developing exhaust leak. Because the brake discs have been noted as worn and lipped in multiple previous tests, check that the braking feels progressive and does not pull to one side, which would indicate binding calipers or unevenly worn friction material.