2015 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Petrol · FN15 DLF

The most recent MOT, carried out on 20 October 2025, resulted in a failure. The failure was driven by a dangerous condition on the rear brake pads, which were measured at less than 1.5 mm, and a major defect on the rear outer axle swivel pins and bushes, both of which were judged to be excessively worn. In addition the windscreen washer system was inoperative and the off‑side front tyre was recorded as being close to the legal tread limit. Earlier in the same test advisory notes highlighted thin front brake pads and a front disc that was pitted, while a previous MOT in February 2024 had already flagged front inner pads as thin and the front disc as scored. This pattern shows a clear deterioration in the condition of the braking system and rear suspension after a period of relatively clean results between 2020 and early 2024, indicating that the overall maintenance trend is now worsening. At 56,888 miles the Fiesta is an 11‑year‑old vehicle, which works out to an average of just over 5,000 miles per annum – well below the typical UK usage rate. Such low mileage often suggests periods of limited use or extended storage, which can be a double‑edged sword. While the engine and drivetrain have been spared the cumulative wear of high mileage, components that rely on regular movement, such as brake discs, suspension bushings and rubber seals, may have suffered from ageing, corrosion or surface hardening. The relatively low mileage does not explain the accelerated wear observed on the rear brake pads and the rear axle swivel bushes, implying that when the car is driven it may be subjected to hard braking or aggressive cornering, or that previous maintenance may have been deferred. A prospective buyer should give the braking system immediate attention. The rear pads will need to be replaced promptly, and the front pads should be inspected for the remaining thickness; if they are approaching the minimum legal limit the front set will also require renewal. The pitted front disc, while not yet a safety‑critical failure, is a precursor to reduced braking efficiency and possible vibration under heavy braking; resurfacing may be possible but replacement is often the more reliable route. The rear axle swivel pins and bushes are a suspension component that, when worn, can produce clunking noises on cornering, a vague looseness in the steering feel and may affect wheel alignment. Replacement of the pins, bushes and any associated greasing is advisable before the car is driven regularly. The windscreen washer pump should be repaired or replaced, and the off‑side front tyre must be changed as it is already at the legal tread limit; the opposite tyre should be examined for sidewall cracking or age‑related perishing, as tyres older than six years can deteriorate even with low mileage. Beyond the specific defects, a thorough age‑related inspection is warranted. Verify the condition of the 12‑volt battery, checking voltage and any signs of sulfation that can develop during long periods of inactivity. Examine all rubber components – hoses, belts, suspension bushings and the boot seals – for cracking, hardening or loss of elasticity. Inspect the brake discs for surface corrosion that can cause uneven pad wear, and look for any signs of rust on the chassis, especially around the rear suspension mounting points, which can indicate prolonged standing. Confirm that the service history is complete, with regular oil and filter changes, and that the coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been replaced at the recommended intervals; fluid degradation can be hidden but will affect cooling and braking performance. A test drive should be attentive to any shudder when applying the brakes, unusual noises from the rear suspension, steering pull, or a wobble in the steering wheel, all of which would corroborate the MOT findings and help prioritise the necessary remedial work.