2011 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · KM61 AAX

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 16 April 2026, with a single advisory recorded against the nearside rear tyre, noting a cut that did not reach the ply or cords. This represents a successful outcome, but reviewing the broader MOT history reveals a slightly uneven maintenance trend. The 2025 test returned a clean pass with no advisories, which is a positive indicator. However, the 2024 test initially resulted in a failure due to a dangerous nearside rear tyre that exhibited a tear caused by separation or partial failure of its structure, alongside two advisories for slightly discoloured rear direction indicators. The vehicle was subsequently retested on the same day and passed, retaining those advisories. The recurrence of advisories relating to the rear lighting cluster and the earlier dangerous tyre failure suggest that while the vehicle has consistently passed its statutory roadworthiness checks, certain components, particularly those at the rear axle, warrant closer scrutiny during a physical inspection. With 73,623 recorded miles over approximately fifteen years, this Fiesta has covered an average of around 4,907 miles annually, which is considerably below the typical mileage for a vehicle of this age. This low annual usage figure strongly suggests periods of standing or only light, infrequent use, often referred to as low-mileage neglect. While low mileage reduces wear on major drivetrain components, engines, gearboxes and clutches, it presents its own mechanical considerations. Brake discs and calipers can suffer from corrosion or seizing due to lack of regular use, leading to uneven braking or binding. Coolant, brake fluid and other hydraulic systems degrade over time regardless of mileage, as do rubber components such as bushes, hoses and drive belts. Given the age and low mileage profile, a prospective buyer should focus heavily on age-related degradation rather than wear from high use. The tyres should be inspected for sidewall perishing and cracking from age, particularly as the most recent advisory referenced damage to a rear tyre. While the tyre in question had not reached the cords, such damage can indicate exposure or impact. Verify the date code on all tyres to ensure they are within a safe age bracket, typically no more than five to six years old, as rubber hardens and loses grip with time even if tread depth remains adequate. Examine the rear brake calipers for signs of seizing or corrosion, and check for any binding by ensuring the wheels rotate freely and evenly when jacked. Test the brakes at low speed to listen for any scraping, grinding or pulling to one side, which would indicate seized calipers or warped or corroded brake discs. Further checks should include verifying the condition of the 12-volt battery, as vehicles that stand for extended periods often suffer from battery degradation. Ask for evidence of regular use or recent battery replacement, and load-test if possible. Inspect all under-bonnet and under-floor rubber components, including the cambelt, auxiliary drive belts, coolant hoses and suspension bushes, for any signs of perishing, cracking or leaks, as these deteriorate with calendar age. Confirm that the vehicle has been serviced according to time rather than purely mileage intervals, particularly for brake fluid and coolant, both of which require replacement regardless of mileage. Finally, check the service book for stamps at least every two years, ensuring that essential fluids have been refreshed and the timing belt or chain, depending on the specific Fiesta variant, has been attended to at the manufacturer-recommended interval.