2003 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Petrol · GN53 ABK

The vehicle's roadworthiness shows a concerning downward trend in mechanical integrity despite passing its most recent test. While the December 2025 MOT at 105,034 miles resulted in a pass, the record shows a persistent and worsening pattern of corrosion. The tester flagged three separate brake pipes—offside rear, nearside rear, and offside front—as being corroded and covered in grease or other material. This follows a failed test in November 2024 at 102,397 miles where several similar issues were identified, suggesting that while repairs are being attempted, the underlying issue of fluid line degradation is not being fully resolved. The mileage profile indicates a low-use vehicle, averaging approximately 4,567 miles per year over its 23-year lifespan. The jump from 101,358 miles in September 2022 to 102,397 miles in November 2024 shows a period of very light usage, followed by a more consistent climb to 105,034 miles by December 2025. This pattern of infrequent driving can often exacerbate the issues seen in the record, such as the pitted and scored brake discs noted in late 2024 and the corrosion on the coil springs flagged in 2021. Low mileage does not necessarily equate to better condition when the records indicate long periods of stagnation. A prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system and the underside of the chassis. The recurring failures regarding corroded brake pipes across the 2021, 2024, and 2025 tests indicate a systemic issue with the hydraulic lines that requires close scrutiny to ensure they are not merely being cleaned rather than replaced. The tester also noted a severely deteriorated nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint dust cover in November 2024, which suggests that rubber components and suspension bushes are reaching the end of their service life. The history also highlights previous issues with the offside front drive shaft CV boot and corroded rear coil springs. You should check for any signs of play in the front suspension and ensure the drive shaft boots are intact and free from splits. Given the age of the vehicle and the specific mention of grease-covered corroded pipes, a physical inspection of the brake line mounting points and the overall structural condition of the sills and subframes is essential to rule out deeper, unrecorded oxidation.