2010 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Diesel · FD10 ADO

A cumulative total of seven recorded MOT tests reveal a vehicle that regularly attracts minor mechanical interventions, balancing annual passes with recurring same-day test failures and persistent component advisories. The most recent examination on the thirteenth of November 2025 initially resulted in a failure due to a nearside headlamp aim set too low before achieving a pass following immediate adjustment, mirroring an identical pattern from November 2024 where a non-functioning nearside stop lamp triggered a provisional failure before being swiftly rectified. While these initial test refusals were successfully cleared on the same day, the wider historical ledger shows intermittent mechanical wear, including a documented front oil leak in 2022 and steering column universal joint play noted in 2023. Accumulating a total of 102,109 miles over its roughly sixteen-year lifespan yields an average of approximately 6,382 miles per year, establishing a standard, moderate usage profile that avoids both the accelerated mechanical fatigue of high-mileage fleet work and the potential rubber degradation associated with prolonged periods of standing. Annual test intervals remain consistent with no extended gaps in the data, indicating that the car has experienced regular, uninterrupted yearly usage on UK roads. This steady accumulation rate means that major drivetrain and suspension components have faced standard wear patterns typical for a vehicle of this age and class, rather than unusual stress. Inspection of the physical components flagged throughout the history dictates specific areas for close examination during a physical viewing and test drive. The 2023 advisory noting slight play and a knock from the steering column intermediate shaft requires a focused check; a prospective buyer should rock the steering wheel back and forth while stationary to listen for knocking and feel for excessive free play in the column. Additionally, the front oil leak recorded in 2022 means the engine bay should be thoroughly inspected for fresh fluid residue around the lower block and undertray to determine whether the issue remains active or has been resolved. Further attention must be directed toward the rear suspension and steering components referenced in the 2020 test, which flagged corrosion on both rear coil springs alongside play in the offside steering rack inner joint. During the test drive, listen closely for any clunking or creaking noises from the rear suspension over speed humps or rough road surfaces, and ensure the steering tracks straight without excessive play or vagueness when negotiating tight turns. Checking the inner edges of the front tyres for uneven tread wear will also confirm whether the steering geometry remains properly aligned.