2018 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · EY68 FRC

The vehicle holds a clear roadworthiness record with five consecutive annual passes, showing a stable maintenance trajectory. The most recent test on 2 January 2026 at 36,589 miles recorded no failures, though the examiner noted cuts to the outer sidewalls of both nearside tyres. These advisories replace earlier warnings for slightly distorted nearside road wheels, which appeared across the December 2021, December 2022, and December 2023 inspections. The shift from wheel deformation to tyre sidewall damage indicates a recurring pattern of nearside impact rather than deteriorating mechanical health. Previous owners consistently addressed these minor defects before the next test, keeping the car compliant without escalating into structural or drivetrain failures. The odometer progression aligns with light, consistent use over its eight-year lifespan. Mileage climbed from 13,421 miles in December 2021 to 36,589 miles by January 2026, averaging roughly 4,600 miles annually. The gaps between tests remain uniform, and the recorded figures show no sudden jumps or rollbacks. This steady accumulation suggests the car spent considerable time parked or used only for short local journeys. Low annual distances typically preserve engine internals and transmission components, though prolonged standing can accelerate rubber degradation and expose suspension bushings to static stress. A thorough physical inspection must focus on the nearside running gear and impact history. Verify that the alloy wheels show no hidden cracks or excessive curb rash, and check the wheel bearings and hub assemblies for play or roughness caused by repeated strikes. Examine the nearside suspension mounting points, control arm bushes, and steering linkage for stress fractures or accelerated wear. Inspect the wheel arches and lower sills for stone chips that could mask early corrosion. Confirm the tyre cuts have not compromised the sidewall integrity or caused slow air loss, and ensure the vehicle tracks straight without pulling to the nearside under braking.