2006 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Diesel · GK06 AWZ

The 1.4 TDCi diesel engine should return around 55-65 mpg in real-world driving, which remains a strong point for a small car. Road tax for a 2006 diesel of this engine size falls into a higher band — expect to pay the standard rate of around £190-£210 per year (assuming no current exemption). Insurance should be inexpensive, typically sitting in groups 5-7, so annual premiums are likely to be modest for most drivers. Servicing and parts for the Mk6 Fiesta are cheap and widely available, but age-related repairs such as brake pipes, suspension bushes, and exhaust components will add up. Estimated annual running cost: £1,000-£1,400.

Beyond the MOT-flagged items, inspect the bodywork for rust around the rear wheel arches, sills, and door bottoms — these are notorious corrosion points on Mk6 Fiestas, especially 15+ years old. Check the underside of the vehicle on a ramp for exhaust condition and any signs of underfloor corrosion. Verify the timing belt or chain service interval — on the 1.4 TDCi, the cambelt should have been replaced every 100,000 miles or 10 years; with 142,739 miles covered, this work is well overdue if not already done. Finally, take a long test drive paying particular attention to clutch bite point, steering alignment, and any unusual noises from the front suspension.