2017 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · GD67 KPR

The most recent MOT test on the 2017 Ford Fiesta, conducted on 2026-01-29, resulted in a clean pass with no failures, though it included two advisories related to tyre wear on both the front and rear offside positions. While the previous MOT on 2025-02-04 also recorded a steering column top bearing advisory, the vehicle has since passed subsequent tests without further issues, suggesting that the bearing wear may now be within acceptable limits or has been addressed through routine servicing. However, the failure in 2024-01-29 due to nearside rear tyre wear below legal depth and insufficient washer fluid indicates a pattern of tyre-related advisories that warrant closer attention, particularly given the vehicle’s age and accumulated mileage. The overall maintenance trend appears stable in recent years, with no repeated failures beyond the tyre and minor advisory issues, but the recurring tyre wear advisories suggest a need for proactive monitoring to prevent further degradation. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 72,651 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 8,072 miles per year, which is consistent with typical usage for a nine-year-old car. This level of mileage is neither exceptionally high nor low for its age, but it does imply that the Fiesta has undergone consistent, albeit not necessarily aggressive, driving conditions. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests that the car has been in regular use, which can accelerate wear on consumables like tyres, brakes, and suspension components. However, the steady progression of mileage does not necessarily indicate rapid deterioration; instead, it reflects a balanced but not low-mileage profile, meaning wear patterns may be more pronounced than in a car with significantly lower usage. The suspension and steering systems, in particular, could benefit from a thorough inspection to confirm that the minor bearing wear advisories from earlier tests have not progressed further. Given the recurring tyre wear advisories and the nearside rear tyre failure from the 2024 MOT, the prospective buyer should prioritise a detailed inspection of the tyres, focusing on the offside inner edges and nearside rear tread. Tyres worn on the edges or with uneven wear patterns often indicate misalignment, incorrect tyre pressure, or suspension issues. On a test drive, listen for signs of uneven tyre wear, such as clunking noises from the rear or excessive vibration, which may suggest misalignment or binding in the suspension. Additionally, check for any visible cracks or perishing in the tyre sidewalls, especially near the shoulder areas, as this can weaken the tyre structure and lead to sudden failure. The nearside rear tyre failure highlights the importance of ensuring all tyres meet the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6mm, and the buyer should consider replacing any tyres that are close to this limit or showing significant edge wear, as this can compromise handling and safety. Beyond tyres, the steering column bearing advisory from earlier tests raises concerns about potential long-term wear in this area. On a test drive, pay close attention to the steering feel—look for excessive play, unusual resistance, or a grinding sensation when turning, which could indicate that the bearing has worn significantly. If the bearing is indeed compromised, this may lead to steering instability or reduced control, particularly at higher speeds. The buyer should also inspect the steering column for any signs of oil leaks or excessive play, and consider having the bearing replaced if the vehicle has accumulated significant mileage. For the steering system as a whole, check for uneven suspension wear, such as sagging coil springs or clunking noises from worn suspension bushes or ball joints, which can exacerbate steering issues. Additionally, the washer fluid failure from 2024 suggests a need to verify that the washer system is operational and that the fluid is topped up to prevent windscreen fogging, especially in wet conditions. Lastly, given the vehicle’s age, the buyer should also inspect the brake system for signs of corrosion on discs or binding calipers, as prolonged standing can lead to rust buildup, particularly on the near-side rear brake components. A thorough brake inspection, including checking for uneven wear or grinding noises, is essential to ensure safe stopping performance.