1988 Ford Orion 1.4L Petrol · F398 LJB
1988 Ford Orion (1.4L, petrol). First registered 06 Sept 1988. Recorded mileage 82,520 miles. MOT valid until 29 Jul 2027. Taxed until 01 Feb 2027.
- Make & Model
- FORD ORION
- Year / Origin
- 1988 · Nottingham
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 29 Jul 2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Feb 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 82,520 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.4L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
F398 LJB Key Findings
- 1 MOT test recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 31/07/2026
- 82,520 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 defect noted at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
F398 LJB MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
1 MOT test are recorded for this 1988 Ford Orion (F398 LJB) between July 2026 and July 2026.
The record contains 1 pass and 0 failures.
The record shows no MOT failures, although 1 advisory notice notes an item to monitor.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Steering (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 1 advisory notice is recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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MOT Roadworthiness: Excellent
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
A rare survivor with low mileage, but pr
Your primary focus should be the steering system. The July 2026 MOT specifically noted play in both the offside and nearside steering rack inner joints; you should determine if these have been replaced since the test or use this as a point for price negotiation.
As this is a 1988 model, request a full service history to understand how the 1.4L engine has been managed over the last three decades. Check for any evidence of structural corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches and sills, which is a common concern for vehicles of this era.
The 1392cc petrol engine is a simple unit, but it will not offer the fuel efficiency of modern vehicles. You can expect higher fuel consumption per mile compared to contemporary small cars.
Insurance groups for the Orion are typically low, and tax will be based on the vehicle's age and emissions profile. Maintenance costs may be variable due to the age of the car and the potential need to source specific parts for a 1980s Ford model.
Carefully inspect the steering rack and inner joints, as the MOT history explicitly mentions play on both the offside and nearside. Any looseness in the steering wheel or unusual noises when turning should be investigated by a professional.
Additionally, examine the red paintwork for fading or clear-coat failure, and check the underbody for rust. Ensure all electrical components and lights are functioning, as wiring degradation is common in vehicles from 1988.
This 1988 red Ford Orion is powered by a 1392cc petrol engine and has covered 82,520 miles. The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 31 July 2026, although the test identified play in the steering rack inner joints. Given its age, the recorded mileage is relatively low for a vehicle of this vintage.
There is no aggregate MOT data available to provide a statistical reliability rating for the Ford Orion.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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