2018 Ford Fiesta 1.5L Diesel · GD67 TYB

The most recent MOT on 19 February 2026 recorded a pass, but it was accompanied by a failure for the off‑side stop lamp not operating, a minor electrical fault under regulation 4.3.1 (a) (ii). Prior to that the 2025 test showed a pass after a major failure the previous day for excessive wear on both the near‑side and off‑side axle swivel pins and bushes. The 2024 MOT was clean. This pattern indicates that the vehicle has required remedial work on both suspension components and lighting, but the faults have been addressed sufficiently to achieve a pass. The trend is therefore mixed: major mechanical wear was identified and corrected, suggesting a reactive maintenance approach, while the lingering stop‑lamp issue points to a minor oversight that should be rectified before purchase. At eight years old the Fiesta has logged 63 552 miles, equating to just under 8 000 miles per annum – a usage rate that sits squarely within the typical UK average. There are no large gaps in the recorded mileage, implying the car has been driven regularly rather than sitting idle for extended periods. This moderate annual mileage means wear on consumables such as tyres, brake pads and clutch should be in line with expectations for its age, but the relatively low total mileage does not preclude age‑related deterioration of rubber and fluid seals. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the rear axle assembly, as the 2025 failure highlighted excessive wear on the swivel pins and bushes. Inspect the rear suspension for any looseness, clunking or knocking when the car is driven over bumps or when applying throttle while stationary; a worn bush will often produce a noticeable thump that varies with load. Verify that the repair was carried out with genuine parts and that the bushes were correctly lubricated, and ask for any service invoices confirming the work. The off‑side stop lamp must be tested – a non‑functioning rear‑right indicator is a safety issue and, if left unfixed, will cause a re‑fail at the next MOT. Check all external lighting, including the rear‑side indicators and rear‑light clusters, for proper operation and secure wiring. Beyond the recorded defects, age‑related checks are essential. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or uneven wear, especially if the car has been stored for periods; tyres older than six years should be considered for replacement regardless of tread depth. Inspect the 12 V battery for corrosion on terminals and test its cranking voltage, as batteries can lose capacity after five to six years even with low mileage. Look for signs of brake disc rust or surface pitting, which can cause shuddering under braking after the car has sat idle, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding. Finally, confirm that the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed at appropriate intervals – fluids degrade with time and can lead to sludge, overheating or reduced braking efficiency if neglected. A thorough visual inspection combined with a short test drive that includes acceleration, braking and a few low‑speed bumps should reveal any lingering issues before committing to purchase.