2003 Ford Fusion 1.4L Petrol · EO53 CGF

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the most recent MOT result indicates a worsening trend in mechanical condition. While the car passed its January 2026 test at 119,762 miles, the tester identified significant defects related to the steering and braking systems. The presence of play in both steering rack inner joints and severely deteriorated ball joint dust covers on the front suspension represents a sharp decline in maintenance standards compared to the clean records seen in the 2023 and 2024 tests. At 23 years old, the recorded mileage of 119,762 miles is notably low, averaging approximately 5,200 miles per year. The data shows consistent low-impact usage, with a gap of only 7,437 miles between July 2024 and January 2026. However, low annual mileage often masks the accelerated degradation of rubber components and metalwork that occurs during stationary. The recent failure of dust covers and steering rack joints suggests that the vehicle may be suffering from age-related perish and corrosion rather than simple mileage-based wear. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the front suspension and steering assembly to assess the extent of the play. The recurring issue with rear brake pipe corrosion, first noted in 2021 and again in 2026, indicates a persistent failure to address rust-related degradation. It is essential to verify if these brake lines have been replaced or properly treated to prevent structural failure of the hydraulic system. Given the vehicle's age, the structural integrity of the chassis and mounting points for the suspension should also be scrutinized to ensure that hidden corrosion has not compromised the frame's integrity.