2006 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Diesel · EX56 VRM

The vehicle's latest test dated 25 November 2025 was recorded as a PASS, although notably the same date also carries a FAILED entry immediately prior to the pass, indicating that remedial work was carried out on the same visit to clear the refusals. The most recent failure raised two Major defects relating to the front windscreen wiper not clearing the screen effectively and the engine management indicator lamp being inoperative or showing a malfunction, alongside a Dangerous advisory concerning play in the offside front steering rack inner joint. Earlier failures during 2025 and 2023 demonstrate recurring concerns around front brake component wear, anti-roll bar linkage deterioration, shock absorber fluid leakage, and structural tyre failures, while advisories for the offside front brake pipe corrosion and pitted front brake disc have persisted across four consecutive tests from 2022 through 2025. Taken in the round, the maintenance trend is worsening, with the density of Major and Dangerous defects increasing over the past three years despite the vehicle still being presented for testing. With approximately 94,259 miles recorded over a twenty year service life, this Ford Fiesta has covered roughly 4,700 miles annually, which is substantially below the typical mileage for a vehicle of this age and points towards either light usage or extended periods of standing. While low mileage can preserve internal combustion components by reducing cumulative wear, it frequently accelerates rubber and composite degradation, brake disc corrosion due to infrequent use, and 12V battery failure through prolonged discharge cycles. The MOT history reflects this pattern, with tyre perishing and structural failure advisories appearing in 2022, and shock absorber and anti-roll bar dust cover failures recorded in 2023, all consistent with age-related deterioration rather than high-mileage wear. Given the recurring brake-related advisories, a prospective buyer should closely inspect the offside front brake pipe for any signs of active corrosion, weeping, or damage to its protective coating, and verify that any remedial sealing has been professionally completed rather than simply masked with grease. The front brake disc should be examined for lipping, pitting depth, and run-out, as the persistent advisory suggests ongoing wear that may necessitate disc replacement at the next service. During a test drive, attention should be paid to any vibration through the brake pedal, pulling to one side under braking, or grinding noises, alongside clunks or knocking from the front suspension that could indicate worn anti-roll bar linkages, deteriorated suspension bushes, or steering rack inner joint wear as flagged in the latest Dangerous advisory. The wiper linkage, washer system functionality, and headlamp output should also be verified, given the multiple Major failures recorded for these items in 2022 and 2025. Beyond the recorded defects, the vehicle's age demands attention to time-scheduled maintenance items irrespective of the relatively low annual mileage. Brake fluid should be checked for its replacement interval, as hygroscopic absorption of moisture degrades performance over calendar years and can lead to corrosion within the brake system. The 12V battery is highly likely to require replacement given the vehicle's age, and the coolant system should be inspected for condition and any signs of degradation. Tyres warrant careful scrutiny for sidewall cracking and perishing even where tread depth appears adequate, alongside verification of production date codes to ensure they are not excessively aged. Finally, confirmation of a complete service history with corresponding book stamps, together with inspection of the exhaust system for corrosion at mounting points and the underbody for structural integrity, will be essential to forming a complete picture of this twenty year old Fiesta's mechanical condition.