2003 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · FJ53 OFD

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance trend shows a shift from minor cosmetic neglect to developing mechanical wear. The most recent test in December 2025 at 79,802 miles identified three distinct issues, including an offside rear wheel bearing with play, a damaged rear brake cable, and a defective windscreen wiper blade. These faults represent a departure from the clean record achieved in March 2024, suggesting that components are now reaching the end of their functional life due to age and use. At 23 years old, the recorded mileage of 79,802 miles averages to a low 3,470 miles per year. However, the data reveals a significant spike in usage between January 2025 and December 2025, where the car covered over 12,600 miles in just eleven months. This recent burst of activity likely explains the transition from thin brake pads noted in early 2023 to the mechanical failures seen in the latest MOT test. The previous history suggests the vehicle may sat for long periods before experiencing accelerated wear. A buyer must personally inspect the suspension and braking system thoroughly, as the offside rear wheel bearing and brake cable issues indicate that rubber and metal components are degrading. The recurring mention of thin front brake pads across 2021 and 2023 suggests a pattern of reactive rather than proactive maintenance. Given the vehicle's age and the low annual mileage, a detailed physical inspection should also check for structural corrosion on the sills and wheel arches, as low-mileage cars often suffer from age-related rust that is not always cleared by regular road use.