2010 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Diesel · FP10 FLL

The most recent MOT test on the 2010 Ford Fiesta recorded a passing result on 2026-07-01, though it included several advisories that indicate ongoing but manageable mechanical concerns. The vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues, particularly with front suspension components and steering systems, which have been flagged in multiple tests over the past six years. While the 2024 and 2022 MOTs were clean, the failures in 2020 and 2025—including excessive wear on ball joints, binding brakes, and faulty lighting—suggest that the vehicle has not been fully maintained to industry standards. The presence of minor oil leaks and slight free play in the steering rack also points to wear that, if left unaddressed, could escalate into more costly repairs or compromise road safety. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 127,677 miles at 16 years old represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,980 miles per year, which is typical for a car of this age and class. However, the MOT failures and advisories suggest that the vehicle has either been driven under conditions that accelerate wear or has been left in a stationary state for prolonged periods, allowing corrosion and component degradation to progress. The 2020 failure, in particular, highlighted a dangerously weakened brake disc and binding calipers, which could indicate prolonged standing or improper maintenance practices. While the mileage alone does not justify these issues, the combination of wear patterns and recurring defects suggests that the vehicle has not been serviced according to Ford’s recommended intervals, particularly for suspension and braking components. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination are the front suspension and braking systems. The advisories and failures related to ball joints, coil springs, and brake discs demand immediate attention. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises such as clunks or rattles from the front suspension, which could indicate worn or failing track rod ends, suspension arms, or steering rack components. Check for uneven tyre wear, which may signal misalignment or binding brakes, and inspect the brake discs for signs of warping, scoring, or excessive glazing. The offside brake disc failure in 2020 was particularly severe, so the buyer should verify that this has been rectified and that the discs are free of corrosion or binding. Additionally, examine the steering wheel for excessive play or resistance, which may correlate with the slight free play advisories detected in previous MOTs. If the steering feels spongy or unresponsive, particularly at low speeds, this could indicate a failing inner joint or rack issue. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should also address the advisories related to oil leaks and corroded coil springs. The oil leak, while not excessive, could be indicative of a failing seal or gasket in the steering rack or engine compartment, which may require replacement if left unchecked. Corroded coil springs, as noted in the 2021 MOT, can lead to sagging suspension, reduced ride quality, and potential instability. Visually inspect the springs for signs of rust, cracks, or deformation, and confirm that they are securely mounted. The rear exhaust heatshield loose advisory is less critical but should be addressed to prevent potential fire hazards or emissions leaks. For fluid servicing, given the vehicle’s age, the buyer should check the condition of the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these can degrade over time even without mileage accumulation. Finally, the underinflated tyre warning from 2020 underscores the importance of maintaining proper tyre pressure, as this directly impacts fuel efficiency, handling, and tyre longevity. A thorough inspection of the tyre sidewall for cracks, perishing, or separation is also essential, especially for a vehicle of this age, as age-related cracking can compromise structural integrity.