2004 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · GR04 FHM

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 4 August 2026 with no defects recorded. Looking at the broader history, the maintenance trend appears stable and positive. Although there was a failure in August 2024 due to a major ABS fault and damaged rear ABS wiring, these issues were rectified on the same day. The subsequent two years of clean passes without any advisories suggest that the vehicle is being kept in a roadworthy condition and that the previous electrical faults were properly addressed. With a recorded mileage of 118,209 miles over a twenty-two year period, the vehicle has averaged approximately 5,373 miles per year. This is significantly lower than the national average for a car of this age. While this suggests less mechanical wear on the engine and gearbox, low annual usage often indicates periods of standing. This can lead to specific issues such as the degradation of rubber seals, the accumulation of moisture in the braking system, and the perishing of various suspension components that would otherwise be kept supple through regular use. Given the low usage and the age of the vehicle, a physical inspection should focus on time-based deterioration. You must examine the tyre sidewalls for fine cracking or perishing, as tyres can become unsafe due to age even if the tread depth remains legal. Check the brake discs for surface corrosion and ensure the calipers are not binding, which is common in vehicles that spend long periods stationary. It is also essential to verify the service history to ensure that engine oil and coolant have been changed based on a calendar interval rather than mileage alone, as these fluids degrade chemically over time. During a test drive, pay close attention to the suspension and steering. Listen for clunks or knocks that may indicate perished suspension bushes or weakened coil springs, which are common failure points on older Fiestas. While the ABS fault from 2024 was resolved, ensure the ABS warning lamp illuminates during the initial ignition sequence and then extinguishes, confirming the system is active. Finally, inspect the underbody for structural corrosion, particularly around the sills and suspension mounting points, to ensure the vehicle's structural integrity remains sound despite its age.