2002 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · FH51 WWL

The 2002 Ford Fiesta presents a remarkably clean MOT record for a vehicle of this age, with every recorded test resulting in a pass and zero defects noted. The most recent examination on 7 March 2026 at 78,240 miles recorded no advisories or failures whatsoever, indicating that the car currently meets all DVSA roadworthiness standards across brakes, suspension, emissions, lighting, and structural integrity. The maintenance trend is stable and, if anything, improving, as the vehicle has consistently passed without issue across five consecutive tests spanning nearly five years. The mileage accumulation tells an interesting story. Between September 2021 at 49,277 miles and March 2023 at 55,946 miles, the car covered roughly 6,600 miles over approximately 17 months, suggesting either a period of light use or a gap in taxation. From March 2023 onward, the annual pace settled to around 5,700 to 6,400 miles per year, consistent with short, local journeys. However, the most recent 12-month interval shows a notable jump of over 10,000 miles, from 68,004 miles in March 2025 to 78,240 miles in March 2026. This acceleration in use could indicate a change in ownership or commuting pattern, and it warrants closer attention to consumable wear items that may have been subjected to higher-than-expected demand. Despite the clean paperwork, a 24-year-old Fiesta demands a thorough physical inspection regardless of its MOT history. The suspension bushes, coil springs, and shock absorbers should be checked for age-related deterioration and corrosion, particularly if the car spent extended periods stationary. Brake discs and calipers merit close scrutiny for surface corrosion and binding, as low-mileage vehicles often suffer from pads and discs rusting rather than wearing evenly. The exhaust system should be examined for corrosion, and the underbody and sills inspected for structural rust, which is a common failure point on Fiestas of this generation. Tyre age is also relevant; even with low tread wear, rubber older than six years can develop dangerous sidewall cracking. The recent mileage surge means the clutch, drivetrain, and gearbox should be tested for smooth operation under load, while the cooling system and hoses should be assessed for condition given the car's age. A clean MOT record is encouraging, but it only confirms the vehicle passed minimum standards on specific days. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic remains the most reliable way to verify the long-term structural and mechanical soundness of a car that is now a quarter of a century old.