2019 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · FE69 POU

The vehicle presented a PASSED outcome on its most recent MOT test dated 2026-08-24, although it carries a single advisory concerning the nearside rear tyre being worn close to the legal limit with uneven wear. Reviewing the broader history, the trend over the past twelve months has notably worsened. A failure recorded just three days before the latest pass cited dangerous tread depth deficiencies on both front tyres, an excessively worn front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint, and excessive fluctuation in the offside rear service brake. While the subsequent pass indicates remedial work was undertaken, the proximity of these failures to the latest test suggests the vehicle had multiple pressing wear items requiring attention. The recurrence of the front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint defect, having previously appeared as a minor advisory in 2024, indicates a progressive deterioration rather than an isolated occurrence. Recorded mileage of 69,056 miles across approximately seven years equates to an annual usage of around 9,865 miles, which sits squarely within typical parameters for a vehicle of this age and class. There are no significant gaps in the recorded mileage progression between successive tests, indicating consistent rather than sporadic use, which is mechanically favourable as it suggests regular operation and exercise of components. This level of usage would generally result in moderate wear to consumables such as brake pads, tyres, and clutch components, while suspension and drivetrain items should remain within reasonable service life for the mileage recorded. The steady accumulation also reduces the likelihood of standing-related corrosion issues that can affect lower-mileage or garage-kept vehicles. The most pressing concern within the defect history is the front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint, which was flagged as having slight play in 2024, then progressed to an excessively worn condition resulting in a major failure in 2026. On a test drive, a buyer should listen for clonking or rattling noises from the front suspension when traversing uneven surfaces or over speed bumps, and observe whether the vehicle exhibits any vagueness or instability during direction changes. Given the joint has now been replaced and the vehicle has passed, the remaining items to scrutinise are the bushes within the anti-roll bar itself, as premature wear of the ball joint often indicates broader deterioration of the associated linkage assembly. Additionally, the offside rear service brake fluctuating defect should be investigated; brake disc runout, a binding caliper piston, or worn pad material can all cause fluctuating readings. During a road test, the buyer should monitor for any pulling to one side under braking, brake pedal pulsation, or shudder through the steering wheel, and verify that the handbrake holds the vehicle effectively on an incline. The nearside rear tyre advisory for uneven wear on its edge warrants close physical inspection, as this pattern frequently points to incorrect camber settings, worn rear suspension bushes, or a weakening coil spring. The buyer should measure remaining tread depth across the full width of the tyre and inspect the sidewalls for any signs of cracking or perishing given the vehicle's age. The persistent advisory concerning the offside front outer drive shaft CV boot, recorded across three consecutive tests as severely deteriorated, suggests the boot may still be torn or perished, allowing grease loss and exposing the joint to water ingress and contamination. On a road test, listen for any clicking or knocking from the front of the vehicle during full-lock turns, particularly when reversing in a tight arc, which would indicate advanced CV joint wear. Beyond the documented history, given the vehicle's age, a prospective purchaser should also verify the condition and age of the 12V battery, confirm recent replacement of brake fluid and engine coolant based on calendar intervals rather than mileage, inspect the exhaust system for corrosion at the mounting points and silencer joints, and review the service book to ensure timely replacement of the cambelt and water pump as appropriate for the engine variant fitted.