2011 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · GF61 LFV

Recurring issues with suspension integrity and engine oil seepage define the mechanical history of this Ford Fiesta, which successfully passed its most recent MOT on 11 December 2025 with no recorded defects. While the current status is clean, the vehicle has a documented pattern of failure points spanning several years, including serious shock absorber leaks, suspension arm bush wear, and persistent oil leaks. The transition from multiple failures and advisories in 2022 and 2023 to a clean record in late 2025 suggests that previous mechanical shortcomings have been addressed, though the history of these specific components necessitates a focused inspection of the vehicle's current state. With 100,270 miles accumulated over fifteen years, the vehicle averages approximately 6,685 miles per annum, representing a consistent and moderate usage profile. This level of mileage is typical for a car of this age and does not suggest prolonged periods of inactivity or excessive heavy-duty use. However, the consistent accumulation of miles means that high-wear items such as suspension bushings, dampers, and engine seals have reached a stage in their service life where they require ongoing monitoring, regardless of the most recent pass result. When conducting a test drive, pay close attention to the front suspension, as the record indicates past wear in the lower suspension arm bushes and a serious leak in the offside shock absorber. Listen for any knocking or clunking sounds when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, which could indicate that the bushings or dampers are again nearing the end of their functional life. Additionally, check the steering for any vagueness or pulling to one side, as worn suspension geometry often manifests as imprecise handling or uneven tyre wear. Given the historical reports of an oil leak, perform a thorough inspection of the engine bay and the underside of the vehicle for any signs of fresh fluid accumulation. While the most recent test did not flag this as an issue, the recurrence of this advisory in previous years warrants a check for oil misting or staining around the engine block and sump area. Finally, ensure that the braking system feels firm and responsive without any judder, as the front brake pads were specifically noted as wearing thin during the 2024 inspection, and verify that the rear tyres show no signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which were also flagged as advisories during that same period.