2018 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · FN18 LRJ

The most recent MOT test conducted in June 2025 resulted in a pass, though it included an advisory regarding the rear brake discs being worn, pitted, or scored. When evaluating the overall maintenance trend, the vehicle appears to be in a stable but aging condition. While there were no defects recorded in 2022 or 2024, the appearance of brake-related advisories in 2023 for front pads and again in 2025 for rear discs suggests that the braking consumables are progressively reaching the end of their service life. This is a common pattern for a vehicle of this age and does not necessarily indicate neglect, but it does signal that upcoming maintenance costs related to the braking system should be anticipated. With a recorded mileage of 39,123 over approximately eight years, this Ford Fiesta has covered an average of roughly 4,890 miles per year. This is considerably lower than the typical UK annual average, which implies the vehicle has seen light usage. From a mechanical perspective, lower mileage generally means less wear on the engine, transmission, and suspension components. However, such low usage often suggests the car has spent significant periods stationary. This pattern of intermittent use can be just as taxing on certain components as high mileage, particularly regarding the degradation of rubber parts, the oxidation of fluids, and the buildup of corrosion on exposed metal surfaces. During your inspection and test drive, you must pay close attention to the braking performance. The advisory regarding pitted and scored rear discs may manifest as a pulsating sensation through the brake pedal or a shuddering feeling under heavy braking. You should also verify if the front brake pads mentioned in the 2023 advisory were subsequently replaced, as worn pads can lead to metal-on-metal contact and damage to the calipers. Listen for any squealing or grinding noises when applying the brakes and check for any uneven tyre wear, which could indicate sticking brake calipers or uneven pressure from the braking system. Given the low mileage and age, you should conduct a thorough physical inspection of components prone to age-related perishing. Examine the tyre sidewalls for any signs of cracking or perishing, as rubber degrades over time regardless of tread depth. Check the underside of the vehicle for signs of corrosion on the exhaust system and suspension bushes, which can stiffen or crack when a vehicle is not driven regularly. It is also vital to confirm that the vehicle has been serviced according to the manufacturer's time intervals rather than just mileage intervals, as engine oil and brake fluid require replacement based on calendar age to prevent internal contamination and moisture buildup. Finally, test the 12V battery health, as long periods of standing can lead to sulphation and reduced cranking power.