2012 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Diesel · FD61 CSU

The most recent MOT on 13 July 2026 was passed, with only an advisory that the front tyre tread is approaching the legal limit and that the off‑side front brake shows a slight binding feel when turned by hand. Looking back over the last three years the car moved from a serious failure in July 2023 – where both front tyres were below the 1.6 mm minimum and the front brake pads were under 1.5 mm – to a series of passes that still carry a number of advisories. The trend is therefore one of improvement after the 2023 failure, but the persistence of tyre, brake and suspension advisories indicates that the vehicle is still being run with components that are approaching the end of their service life and will need attention soon. At 117,245 miles recorded in September 2026 the Fiesta averages roughly 8,400 miles per year over its 14‑year life, which sits squarely within normal UK usage patterns. The mileage does not suggest extreme abuse, but the relatively modest annual distance also hints that the car may have spent periods of extended inactivity. Such standing periods can accelerate tyre perishing, battery sulphation and corrosion of under‑body components, even when the odometer reading remains modest. A prospective buyer should give the tyres the most thorough inspection. Check the tread depth on all four wheels with a gauge; any reading below 3 mm on the sidewalls or signs of cracking, dry rot or bulging edges should be treated as a replacement item, especially on the off‑side rear tyre which has been flagged repeatedly for perishing. While you are on the wheels, feel for any vibration or pulsation through the steering wheel that could indicate uneven wear or a developing brake disc issue, and listen for a faint squeal or grinding that would betray worn pads or glazed rotors. Because the off‑side front brake was noted as slightly binding, have the brake pedal tested for a firm, consistent feel and verify that the caliper moves freely; excessive pedal travel or a spongy sensation could point to a sticking caliper or deteriorated hydraulic fluid. Beyond the tyres, inspect the suspension ball joints on both front arms for any play by applying firm pressure to the wheel at the 12 and 6 o’clock positions; any clunk or movement beyond a few millimetres suggests the joint is nearing replacement. The dust cover on the near‑side front arm was recorded as severely deteriorated, so check that the cover is intact to keep contaminants out of the joint. Examine the rear shock absorbers for any oil seepage around the seals – a light mist of oil can be an early sign of impending failure. Verify that the coolant reservoir is topped up and that the fluid is a clear, bright colour; low level or a rusty hue may indicate a leak or the need for a coolant flush. Look over the rear exhaust silencer outer casing for rust or cracks, and confirm the registration plates are still legible and securely mounted. Finally, given the car’s age and possible periods of inactivity, have the 12 V battery tested for cranking amperage and check for any corrosion on the terminals, and consider a full service that includes changing the engine oil, filter, brake fluid and a thorough inspection of the timing chain tensioner if the model is equipped with a chain. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the Fiesta’s current roadworthiness and the likely cost of bringing it up to a reliable standard.