2010 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Diesel · KP10 HSC

A recurring front‑suspension wear and corrosion theme dominates the MOT history, with the off‑side front track‑rod end ball joint flagged for slight play in four consecutive tests (2025, 2024, 2023 and 2021) and the nearside front ball joint repeatedly noted from 2019 onward. Corrosion of the coil springs has been recorded each year since 2019, while the front brake pipe was marked as corroded and covered in grease in 2023. Although the latest test in June 2025 passed, it still carried advisories for tyre wear and the same ball‑joint play, indicating that the underlying wear pattern has not been fully resolved. At just under 200,000 mi the car averages roughly 12‑13 k mi per year, a mileage rate well above the typical figure for a 2010 model. This level of use accelerates wear on consumables such as tyres, suspension bushings, brake components and steering linkages, and it magnifies the impact of any corrosion already noted. The MOT record shows an uninterrupted series of annual tests from 2019, with a single missing year (2022), suggesting the vehicle has been regularly presented for inspection despite the high mileage. Prospective buyers should give the front suspension close attention. With the ball‑joint play still present, a noticeable clunk or looseness when steering through bumps or applying full steering lock would be expected; excessive play may also manifest as vague steering wander at speed. The corroded coil springs can lead to uneven ride height and may be prone to fracture, so a visual inspection for rust spots and a bounce test for sag are advisable. The front brake pipe’s corrosion raises the risk of fluid leakage – check for any dampness around the pipe, a drop in brake pedal firmness, or a faint hissing sound under pressure. The reduced damping reported for both front shock absorbers should be felt as a bouncy, less controlled ride, especially over uneven surfaces, and may be accompanied by uneven tyre wear. The rear axle swivel pins and bushes, flagged as excessively worn in 2019, can produce a metallic knock under acceleration or braking and may cause the rear to wander under load; a test‑drive should include firm acceleration and deceleration to listen for such noises. The missing steering‑rack gaiter noted in 2021 can allow dirt ingress, potentially leading to premature rack wear – feel for any gritty or gritty‑like feedback in the steering column. The battery was recorded as insecure in 2025, so verify that the mounting strap is tight and the terminals are clean. Tyre edges on both front wheels are close to the legal limit, so budget for immediate replacement. Finally, the washer‑fluid insufficiency failure in 2021 should be checked by confirming the pump operates and the reservoir is not cracked, ensuring adequate visibility in adverse weather. A thorough pre‑purchase inspection covering these points will reveal whether the vehicle’s lingering corrosion and suspension wear have been adequately addressed.