2015 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · KP08 AAA

The most recent DVSA examination conducted on 5 December 2025 resulted in a Pass, though an advisory was issued regarding the nearside front tyre being worn close to the legal limit and presenting with edge wear. Evaluating the broader maintenance trajectory from the recorded history, the vehicle demonstrated clean passes in 2022, 2023, and 2024, but a failure was recorded on 4 September 2024 due to dangerously cracked nearside rear tyre structure and imbalanced rear braking across the rear axle. Following remedial rectification, a pass was issued the same day, suggesting the issues were addressed promptly. Overall, the trend indicates that the vehicle has been conscientiously maintained, though the recurring theme of brake imbalance across two consecutive examinations and persistent tyre wear issues suggests that brake and suspension components warrant close attention by any prospective purchaser. With an odometer reading of 53,569 miles across approximately eleven years of service, this Ford Fiesta has accumulated an average of around 4,870 miles annually, which is notably low for a vehicle of its age. This pattern of usage suggests either primarily short urban journeys or extended periods of standing between uses, both of which carry distinct mechanical implications. Low annual mileage typically accelerates calendar-based degradation of consumables such as brake fluid, coolant, and the 12V battery, while extended standing periods encourage corrosion on brake discs, potential caliper seizure from infrequent actuation, and deterioration of rubber components including drive belts, hoses, and tyre sidewalls through perishing and cracking. Conversely, drivetrain wear on internal components such as the engine, gearbox, and clutch may be relatively modest given the lower mileage. The recurring advisory and failure entries relating to braking imbalance across the rear axle, recorded in both 2022 and 2024, indicate a persistent issue that merits thorough investigation. On a physical inspection, the buyer should examine the rear brake discs for scoring, lipping, or uneven surface corrosion, and verify that the caliper slide pins and pistons operate freely without binding. Uneven pad wear across the rear axle could point to a sticking caliper or a fatigued handbrake mechanism, both of which may manifest as pulling to one side under braking, a low or dragging handbrake feel, or pulling on a test drive particularly in reverse. Additionally, the recurring nearside tyre edge wear noted in both 2022 and 2025 suggests possible tracking misalignment or worn front suspension components such as wishbone bushes, drop links, or track rod ends, all of which are common wear items on a vehicle of this vintage and mileage. Beyond the recorded defects, the age of the vehicle necessitates attention to several time-sensitive items irrespective of mileage. The buyer should scrutinise all four tyres, including any currently fitted spare, for sidewall cracking and perishing typical of rubber nearing a decade of service, and confirm the production date markings on the sidewalls. The 12V battery should be load-tested, as batteries of this age frequently suffer from reduced capacity even if the vehicle starts readily. Brake fluid should be replaced every two years irrespective of mileage due to its hygroscopic nature, and the cooling system should be checked for perished hoses and aged coolant. It is also advisable to verify a full service history with documented stamps confirming regular oil and filter changes at appropriate intervals, and to inspect the underside and wheel arches for any structural corrosion, exhaust integrity, and oil or coolant leaks that may have developed during prolonged low-use periods.