2014 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · F22 AAW

The most recent DVSA examination on 18 July 2026 resulted in a pass, with only a minor advisory noting a small chip in the windscreen, which is entirely cosmetic unless it has progressed or falls within the driver's swept vision. Reviewing the broader trend, the vehicle has experienced one major failure event in 2025 relating to the rear suspension arm pins or bushes, and a separate failure in 2024 predominantly caused by lighting defects that were easily rectified. Both of these failures have been followed by clean passes, with the most recent test indicating a stable and reasonably well-maintained condition. While the offside rear shock absorber advisory from 2024 and the steering rack inner joint play advisory from 2025 have not been re-flagged, a prospective buyer should establish whether any remedial work was completed, as these components can deteriorate progressively if left unattended. With a recorded mileage of 82,912 miles over twelve years, this Fiesta has covered approximately 6,900 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age and class, though it sits at the lower end of average use. This relatively modest annual accumulation suggests a mix of regular shorter journeys and possible periods of standing, both of which carry their own mechanical implications. Lower annual mileage often means longer intervals between fluid and filter changes if servicing has been strictly mileage-based rather than time-based, so verifying a consistent service history with annual or biennial stamps is essential. Equally, periods of inactivity can encourage corrosion on brake discs, binding of caliper slides, and deterioration of exposed rubber and plastic components, even when overall wear remains low. The 2025 failure specifically cited excessive wear in both rear suspension arm pins or bushes, which is a common issue on this generation of Fiesta and typically presents as a clonking or knocking noise from the rear under undulating road surfaces, over speed humps, or during heavy load conditions. If these were replaced, the components should now be in good order, but if only one side was renewed the buyer should anticipate the other side requiring attention in the near term, and a careful test drive over varied surfaces is advisable to listen for any residual play. The 2024 advisories regarding front brake pads wearing thin and front brake discs showing wear, combined with light oil misting on the offside rear shock absorber, indicate a vehicle where the braking system and rear damping are components approaching mid-life replacement, so a physical inspection of pad thickness, disc lipping, and shock seal condition is warranted. Given the vehicle's age, attention should also be directed towards time-sensitive degradations regardless of the relatively modest mileage. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber compounds harden with calendar age, and the production date code on the sidewall will confirm whether they exceed six years. The 12V battery is likely due for replacement given the car's age, and cold cranking performance should be verified. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time and ideally should have been renewed every two years, so confirmation of its service date is worthwhile. Coolant, which often contains corrosion inhibitors with a finite lifespan, should also be checked for condition and age. Finally, with the recorded steering rack play advisory from 2025, particular attention should be paid during the test drive to any vagueness, knocking, or uneven tyre wear across the front axle, as the inner joint assemblies on this model are known to deteriorate and can lead to MOT failure if not addressed.