2014 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · FD63 WGC

The most recent MOT on 3 March 2026 was a pass, but it was accompanied by several advisories concerning corroded coil springs on both the front nearside and the rear off‑side, as well as slight wear on the rear axle swivel pins and bushes. Over the past four years the vehicle has oscillated between passes and failures, with dangerous tyre defects and a major ball‑joint wear failure recorded in 2024 and 2023 respectively, and a repeat of tyre‑related dangerous failures in early 2026. This pattern indicates a maintenance trajectory that is currently stabilising only because remedial work appears to have been carried out after each failure, yet the recurrence of similar issues suggests that underlying wear and corrosion are not being fully addressed. At 93,302 mi the Fiesta averages roughly 7,800 mi per annum, which is typical for a twelve‑year‑old model. The mileage does not appear excessive, but the frequency of tyre and suspension failures hints that the car may have experienced prolonged periods of inactivity, allowing rubber to perish and metal components to corrode. A relatively low annual mileage combined with the observed corrosion on coil springs and swivel pins points to calendar‑based degradation rather than purely mileage‑driven wear, so the buyer should be aware that age‑related deterioration may be present despite the modest odometer reading. The buyer should give particular attention to the tyre condition: inspect all four tyres for tread depth, sidewall integrity, bulges or tears, and verify that the current set meets the legal 1.6 mm minimum. Any uneven wear could signal misaligned suspension or worn steering components. The near‑front ball joint that was flagged as excessively worn in 2024 should be examined for play by checking the steering knuckle movement with the wheel off the ground; a clunk or looseness when turning over bumps would confirm lingering wear. The coil springs, noted as corroded, should be assessed for cracks or loss of spring rate, as corrosion can lead to sudden failure under load. Swivel pins and bushes on the rear axle, although only slightly worn, merit lubrication checks and visual inspection for excessive play that could cause rear‑end noise or handling instability. The inner brake discs on both front wheels were recorded as significantly worn in 2023; the buyer should verify disc thickness, look for scoring or rust, and confirm that the pads are not excessively thin, as reduced disc material can lead to brake fade or pulsation under hard braking. Beyond the recorded defects, a comprehensive age‑appropriate inspection is advisable. Examine the chassis and under‑tray for rust, especially around suspension mounting points and the exhaust system, as prolonged standing can accelerate corrosion. Test the 12 V battery voltage and check for any signs of sulfation or leaking electrolyte, given the vehicle’s age. Verify that all fluid levels—engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid—are at the correct specifications and appear clear, since fluids degrade over time even when the car is not driven heavily. Finally, request a full service history to confirm that timing‑belt or chain intervals, oil changes and any previous suspension or brake work have been logged; a well‑documented service record will give confidence that the recurring issues have been properly rectified and that the car remains mechanically sound for continued road use.