2015 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · EX65 LLO

The most recent DVSA examination on 2026-02-04 resulted in a Pass, with the only recorded advisory being rear axle swivel pins and bushes showing slight wear on both sides. Looking at the broader pattern across the past several tests, there is a noticeable and consistent upward trend in advisory items relating to tyres, suspension, and steering components, indicating that while the vehicle continues to pass the roadworthiness criteria, wear-related deterioration is gradually progressing. In 2019 and 2022 the records were relatively clean, but from 2023 onwards there has been a year-on-year accumulation of advisories covering front and rear tyres, rear coil springs, and steering linkage, suggesting that proactive maintenance on the suspension and undercarriage will be required in the near future to prevent an outright failure at the next test. With 124,968 miles recorded over an 11-year period, this Fiesta has covered approximately 11,361 miles annually, which is broadly consistent with typical average usage for a vehicle of this age. The mileage progression through the MOT history shows steady accumulation without any prolonged gaps that would suggest extended periods of standing unused, nor any unusually high annual figures indicative of motorway commuter or fleet use. This consistent usage pattern is generally favourable, as it suggests the mechanical components, particularly the engine, clutch, drivetrain, and brake system, have been worked regularly rather than suffering from cold-start deterioration or seized calipers associated with low or irregular use. That said, at this mileage many wear-and-tear items such as the timing belt, water pump, suspension bushes, and exhaust components will be approaching or past their typical service intervals, warranting verification of maintenance records. Given the recurring advisories around tyre wear on both front and rear edges, it would be prudent to closely inspect the current set of tyres for uneven shoulder wear, as this can point to misalignment, worn suspension bushes, or weakened coil springs rather than simple inflation issues. A careful test drive should include listening for clonking or knocking noises from the rear suspension over uneven roads, which would confirm whether the worn swivel pins and bushes have progressed beyond acceptable tolerance, as well as feeling for vagueness or knocking through the steering that could indicate the track rod end ball joint play has worsened. Additionally, the corroded rear coil springs flagged in 2025 should be physically inspected for advanced surface corrosion, cracking, or sagging, as severely compromised springs can lead to poor ride height, uneven tyre wear, and reduced handling stability. Beyond the specific advisories, prospective buyers should carry out a thorough physical inspection appropriate to the vehicle's age and mileage. The undercarriage, including subframes, brake lines, and the fuel tank area, should be examined for any significant structural corrosion, particularly given the time the car has spent in service. Brake discs should be checked for lipping or corrosion ridges, and the calipers for smooth operation, while all fluid levels and their condition should be verified, particularly the brake fluid moisture content, as this degrades over time regardless of mileage and can compromise braking performance if not refreshed. The 12-volt battery should be load tested, especially given the age of the vehicle, and the service history should be carefully reviewed to confirm that cambelt, clutch, and major service intervals have been completed. Finally, a test drive in cold conditions, paying attention to any warning lights, unusual smoke from the exhaust, or hesitation under acceleration, will provide further reassurance that this well-used Fiesta remains mechanically sound.