2017 Ford Ecosport 1.0L Petrol · FN17 FFD

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 20 April 2026, although the overall maintenance trend appears to be declining. The recent history shows a pattern of failures related to basic consumables and lighting, such as windscreen wipers and indicator colours, alongside persistent mechanical advisories. This suggests a reactive approach to maintenance where defects are only addressed when they reach a failure threshold rather than being managed proactively, indicating that the prospective buyer should scrutinize the service history for evidence of preventative care. With 61,606 miles recorded over approximately nine years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 6,845 miles per annum. This usage rate is typical for its age and suggests a balanced duty cycle that avoids the risks associated with both excessive wear from high mileage and the degradation caused by long periods of standing. Mechanically, the vehicle is at a stage where standard wear-and-tear components, specifically within the suspension and braking systems, are likely to require attention. A significant point of concern is the nearside track rod end, which has been flagged for slight play since at least May 2025. This is a critical steering component, and its persistence as an advisory over multiple tests suggests it is nearing the end of its service life. During a test drive, listen for clunking or knocking sounds when turning the steering wheel at low speeds and feel for any vagueness in the steering response. Furthermore, the recurring advisories regarding front tyres wearing on the edges strongly suggest a wheel alignment issue or worn suspension bushes, which often coincide with track rod play. A full four-wheel alignment and tyre replacement should be prioritized. The historical records also highlight a recurring theme of brake disc and pad wear, with advisories appearing consistently between 2021 and 2023. You should verify whether the discs have been replaced recently or if they remain pitted and scored, as this can lead to brake shudder or reduced stopping efficiency. Additionally, the repeated failures and advisories regarding indicator discoloration and incorrect colours suggest that the lens housings may be fading or were previously replaced with non-standard parts. Inspect all external lighting for clarity and ensure the correct amber hue is present to avoid immediate future MOT failures.