2004 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · GP04 PWN

Recurring electrical and lighting defects, alongside persistent issues with the windscreen washer system, define the mechanical history of this Ford Fiesta, which successfully passed its most recent MOT on 13 September 2024 following a failed attempt the previous day. The vehicle has demonstrated a pattern of intermittent failures over the last five years, primarily involving headlamp alignment and washer functionality, which were addressed to secure the current pass. While the 2024 test concluded without recorded defects, the history indicates that minor components frequently require attention to maintain legal compliance, suggesting that the electrical and auxiliary systems are areas of ongoing sensitivity. Accumulating 104,195 miles over twenty-two years results in an average annual usage of approximately 4,736 miles, a figure significantly below the national average for a vehicle of this age. This low-mileage profile, while potentially indicating periods of limited use, necessitates a careful inspection of rubber components and seals that can degrade through age rather than wear. The testing history shows consistent annual inspections, confirming the vehicle has not been subject to extended periods of storage that might otherwise lead to significant corrosion or seized mechanical linkages, though the low usage does not exempt the car from the natural aging of its suspension and brake architecture. Prospective buyers should focus their test drive on the suspension and wheel bearings, specifically investigating the offside rear shock absorber and wheel bearing that were flagged as misting and noisy in 2023. Listen closely for any knocking or clonking noises when traversing uneven road surfaces, which could indicate that the previously noted deterioration of the front suspension arm ball joint dust covers has progressed to internal joint wear. Any rhythmic humming or grinding sounds originating from the rear during cornering or acceleration should be treated as evidence of a failing wheel bearing, a component that has already shown signs of fatigue in the recent past. The braking system, particularly the lines and the ABS module, warrants a thorough physical inspection given the 2024 failure involving the ABS warning lamp and the 2022 advisory regarding corroded brake pipes. During the test drive, ensure the brake pedal feels firm and consistent with no sponginess, and verify that the ABS warning light illuminates and extinguishes correctly upon ignition. Furthermore, perform a comprehensive check of the windscreen washer system and headlamp alignment, as these have been recurring failure points that suggest potential underlying issues with the wiring or the washer pump assembly that may require future intervention.