2010 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · EX10 PTY

The most recent MOT test on 30 January 2026 was passed with no defects recorded, which is the immediate green flag a prospective buyer needs to see. However, that same date also carries a prior failed entry on the same day listing two Major defects for front lower suspension arm ball joint excessive wear on both sides, two Major defects for rear direction indicator incorrect colour, and a Minor for a defective front wiper blade. The fact that the vehicle was re-tested and passed the same day strongly implies that all of those items were rectified on site, but the underlying wear on the front suspension arms is consistent with what was first flagged as an advisory in February 2024. Reviewing the broader trend, the advisories recorded at the 2024 test for long brake pedal travel, edge-worn front tyres, and slight play in the offside front lower arm ball joint clearly progressed into Major failures by January 2026, indicating a deteriorating rather than stable maintenance picture. A clean 2022 and 2023 result, followed by a progressively worsening pattern through 2024 and 2026, suggests that this Fiesta is entering a phase where wear-related suspension and undercarriage items now require active monitoring and likely replacement. The recorded mileage of 57,440 miles over approximately sixteen years equates to an average of around 3,590 miles annually, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age and is well below the typical 6,000 to 8,000 miles per year expected of a supermini in regular use. Low annual mileage can reflect a vehicle used primarily for short journeys or one that has stood unused for extended periods, both of which present their own mechanical concerns. Short-trip urban use tends to subject the engine, clutch, and braking system to repeated cold starts without ever fully reaching operating temperature, accelerating oil degradation and encouraging moisture accumulation in the engine oil and exhaust system, which may correlate with the major exhaust leak recorded in January 2023. Conversely, long periods of standing can lead to brake disc corrosion, seized or binding calipers, deteriorated rubber components, and a discharged 12V battery, even though overall mechanical wear on the drivetrain remains minimal. Given the documented history, particular attention must be paid to the front suspension assembly. The lower arm ball joints have now been recorded twice with excessive wear or play, and on a test drive you should listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end, particularly over speed humps, potholes, or when turning at low speed. Uneven or feathered front tyre wear, vague steering response, or the vehicle pulling to one side under braking would all suggest the replacement work has not fully resolved the underlying wear pattern or that the tracking geometry has been compromised. The long brake pedal travel advisory from 2024 is also worth verifying, as it can indicate worn rear brake shoes, stretched handbrake cables, or air ingress in the brake hydraulic system; during a test drive the pedal should feel firm with a reasonably short travel, and pulling away firmly should not produce any shuddering or pulling to one side. Check that all rear direction indicators illuminate in correct amber colour and that the front wiper blades sweep cleanly without smearing. Beyond the documented history, the age and low usage profile of this 2010 Fiesta demand several calendar-based inspections that will not appear on any MOT record. Inspect all four tyres carefully for sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber compounds degrade with age regardless of remaining tread depth, and verify that the spare or repair kit is serviceable. Examine the brake discs for any significant surface rust, particularly around the outer edges, which may indicate the calipers have been binding or the vehicle has stood for prolonged periods. Check the 12V battery for its date code, as a sixteen-year-old original battery is highly unlikely to retain reliable cranking performance, and verify the level and condition of the engine coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid, all of which have time-limited service lives. Finally, confirm that the service book contains regular stamps or that there is credible evidence of timely cambelt and coolant replacement, given that a Ford Fiesta of this vintage is well past its original cambelt change interval, and inspect the underside and exhaust system for any signs of corrosion, oil leaks from the engine and gearbox seals, and deterioration of the rear silencer where the 2023 major leak was previously recorded.