2004 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · FN04 NFZ

The vehicle presents a concerning roadworthiness profile despite its most recent MOT-related pass. While it cleared the test on 23 July 2025 at 61,598 miles, the failure just one day prior revealed critical structural defects. The maintenance trend is worsening, moving from minor light bulb issues in 2024 to significant structural compromise in 2025. The presence of structural corrosion affecting seat belt anchorages indicates a level of decay that goes beyond simple surface rust. At 22 years old, the recorded mileage of 61,598 is exceptionally low, averaging approximately 2,800 miles per year. This low usage often correlates with the degradation of rubber components and metalwork rather than mechanical wear from distance. The gap between the April 2024 test at 58,597 miles and the July 2025 test at 61,598 miles suggests the car sits for long periods, which likely explains the heavy surface corrosion noted on the front brake discs and the excessive wear on the axle swivel pins and bushes. A buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the outer sills and seat belt points. The 2025 failure flagged significantly reduced strength in these areas due to the outer sill corrosion, which is a major safety concern that suggests deep-seated structural rot. The front suspension also requires a close look, as the axle swivel pins and bushes were noted as excessively worn. Additionally, the rear wheel bearings reported as rough in 2024 should be checked for play or noise to ensure they were actually replaced since that failure.