2005 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · EX55 CDO

The most recent DVSA examination on 25 November 2025 resulted in a PASS classification, accompanied by several advisories concerning front brake disc wear and pitting, deterioration of the front registration plate, corrosion to the rear axle, and general underbody and suspension component corrosion. Reviewing the recent MOT history reveals a maintenance trend that is best described as stable but progressively corroding rather than worsening in outright mechanical terms. The vehicle has avoided any repeat failures since the dangerous defects recorded in November 2022, which related to corrosion of the nearside and offside rear outer suspension component mounting prescribed areas. That the car has subsequently passed three consecutive tests indicates that remedial structural work was likely undertaken at that point. However, advisories relating to brake disc condition, sub-frame corrosion, coil spring corrosion, shock absorber corrosion, and swivel pin wear have appeared repeatedly across multiple tests, signalling a slow but persistent deterioration of the undercarriage and braking components that warrants close scrutiny. With 118,331 miles recorded over approximately 21 years, the vehicle has covered an average of around 5,635 miles per year, which is considerably below the typical annual mileage for a supermini of this vintage. Such low usage can stem from either predominantly light-duty driving or extended standing periods, and either scenario carries mechanical consequences. Low-mileage examples are particularly susceptible to time-related degradation rather than wear-related degradation, meaning that rubber components, fluids, and externally exposed metallic surfaces may have deteriorated even though major mechanical internals remain relatively unworn. The MOT records show a broadly consistent annual testing pattern from 2022 onwards, suggesting the vehicle has been in regular use in recent years, although earlier gaps in the available history may indicate periods of inactivity that could have accelerated corrosion through lack of motion and moisture entrapment. Given the recurring advisories on front brake disc pitting and scoring, a prospective buyer should inspect the discs for visible ridging at the disc edge and feel for brake shudder or pulsation through the pedal under firm application, as pitted discs reduce braking efficiency and can necessitate replacement if the wear progresses. The persistent advisories on rear axle swivel pins and bushes warrant a physical check for play in the rear suspension, typically manifesting as a clonking noise over speed humps or uneven rear tyre wear. The corrosion advisories on the sub-frame, coil springs, and shock absorbers should be examined closely, as these are areas where continued degradation could escalate to a future failure; on the Fiesta of this generation, rear axle and suspension mounting corrosion is a known concern that can advance rapidly once initiated. On a test drive, listen for any knocking from the rear under undulating road surfaces and verify that the vehicle tracks straight without wandering, as corroded bush housings can introduce vagueness in the steering response. Beyond the specific advisories, the age and low-mileage profile of this Fiesta demand attention to several time-sensitive items. Tyres should be examined for sidewall perishing and cracking, which is common on vehicles that have spent significant time stationary or in sunlight, and the production date code should be checked as tyres older than seven years require replacement regardless of tread depth. The 12-volt battery should be load-tested, as prolonged standing periods deplete battery health and a marginal unit will cause starting issues and electrical faults. Brake calipers can seize from inactivity, so each wheel should be checked for free rotation and equal pad wear, and the handbrake mechanism should be confirmed as fully releasing without binding. Engine coolant, brake fluid, and gearbox oil should be considered overdue for replacement on a calendar basis, as fluid degradation occurs with age irrespective of mileage. Finally, a thorough inspection of the underbody from beneath the vehicle using a torch or by arranging a ramp inspection is strongly advised to gauge the true extent of the corrosion flagged in successive MOT tests and to confirm that no further structural weakening has occurred since the most recent advisory was issued.