2012 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Diesel · FE12 FAA

Persistent wear on the rear suspension bushings and recurring thinning of the front brake pads define the mechanical history of this Ford Fiesta, which successfully passed its most recent MOT on 3 March 2026 following a failed attempt earlier that same day. The initial failure was attributed to dangerous tyre defects, specifically exposed cords and insufficient tread depth, which were rectified to secure the pass. While the vehicle has maintained a consistent record of passing its annual inspections, the repeated flagging of the rear axle swivel pins and bushes since 2023 indicates a long-term structural degradation in the rear suspension geometry that has not yet been addressed through component replacement. Accumulating 146,730 miles over fourteen years results in an average of approximately 10,481 miles per annum, a figure that aligns with standard usage expectations for a vehicle of this age. This consistent annual mileage suggests the car has been in regular operation rather than subjected to prolonged periods of inactivity, which typically helps prevent issues related to seized mechanical components or perished seals. However, the high total mileage means that major drivetrain and chassis components have been subject to significant cyclical loading, making the current state of the suspension and braking systems a direct consequence of cumulative road use rather than age-related deterioration alone. Prospective buyers should prioritise a thorough examination of the rear suspension during a test drive, specifically listening for knocking or clunking noises when traversing uneven surfaces or speed bumps, as these are primary indicators of the worn swivel pins and bushes noted in the MOT advisories. Any lateral instability or a wandering sensation from the rear end during cornering should be treated as a sign that these bushings require immediate replacement to restore proper handling and prevent accelerated tyre wear. Furthermore, the recurring advisory regarding thin front brake pads suggests that the braking system is nearing the end of its current service life, necessitating an inspection of both the pad material and the condition of the brake discs for scoring or lip formation. When evaluating the front end, check for any vibration through the steering wheel under braking, which could point to warped discs or seized sliding pins that may have contributed to the uneven pad wear observed in previous tests. Given the recent history of dangerous tyre failures, ensure that all four tyres are currently fitted with matching, high-quality rubber and that they show even wear patterns across the tread face. If the vehicle pulls to one side during straight-line driving or exhibits heavy steering, it may suggest that the suspension geometry has been compromised by the persistent bushing wear, and a full four-wheel alignment check should be considered a necessary post-purchase requirement.