2020 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · FD69 OGZ

The most recent DVSA test on this 2020 Ford Fiesta was conducted on 6 January 2026 and resulted in a PASS, but only after a prior FAIL was recorded on the same date for serious front brake defects. The failure included a Major for excessively fluctuating front service brake effort, a Major for an offside front service brake binding, and a Dangerous defect for offside front brake pads worn below 1.5 mm. Three tyre advisories were also issued on the same date for nearside front, offside front, and offside rear tyres worn close to the legal limit on the edge. Looking back over the available history, the 2024 and 2023 tests passed with no advisories at all, and the January 2025 test carried only a single nearside front tyre advisory. The 2026 result therefore represents a noticeable deterioration in condition, particularly in the braking system, which warrants close scrutiny even though the car subsequently passed. With 123,943 miles recorded over roughly six years, this Fiesta has averaged approximately 20,657 miles per year, which is well above the typical UK annual mileage of 8,000 to 12,000 miles. This places the vehicle firmly in the high-mileage bracket, and the implications for a prospective buyer are significant. Higher annual mileage accelerates wear on all consumables and mechanical components, particularly brake friction material, brake discs, tyres, suspension bushes, coil springs, and clutch assemblies. There are no obvious gaps in the testing history suggesting long periods of standing, so the wear pattern is consistent with regular use rather than calendar-related degradation. Given the recurring tyre wear advisories across multiple tests, particularly edge wear on both front tyres, a careful buyer should inspect all four tyres for uneven shoulder wear and check the wheel alignment, including tracking and camber, as this pattern often indicates misalignment, worn suspension bushes, or top mount deterioration. On a test drive, listen for suspension clonks or knocks over uneven surfaces, particularly from the front, and pay attention to any pulling to one side under braking which could confirm the fluctuation noted at the previous MOT. Because the offside front caliper was recorded as binding, the buyer should on a test drive feel for any residual brake drag, uneven pulling, or a hot-smell from the offside front wheel after a short drive, and verify that the vehicle rolls freely when pushed on level ground. The brake-related failure and advisories mean the front brake discs and pads, and possibly the offside front caliper, should be inspected for current condition. The advisory on the offside rear brake disc being pitted or scored suggests surface corrosion is present, which on a high-mileage vehicle often requires replacement rather than machining once the thickness approaches the minimum specification. Beyond the items flagged, a vehicle of this age and mileage warrants checks of the 12V battery health, the condition and date of the brake fluid and coolant, the timing belt or chain service interval depending on engine variant, and a thorough under-bonnet inspection for any oil or coolant leaks. A full inspection on a lift is strongly recommended given the mileage and the recent brake-related Dangerous defect, even though the vehicle has since passed its MOT.