2004 Ford Fusion 1.6L Petrol · LA04 AAY

The 2004 Ford Fusion currently holds a valid MOT pass issued on 14 March 2026 at 99,179 miles, following a failure just five days earlier on 9 March 2026. The maintenance trend is broadly stable, with the most recent failure indicating prompt rectification of a major rear exhaust leak, headlamp aim, fog lamp, washer, and reverse light faults. However, the recurrence of an oil leak advisory across both March 2026 tests, described as not excessive, points to a minor but persistent engine or gearbox oil weep that has not been fully resolved. The pass is sound, but the pattern of low-level advisories suggests attentive rather than meticulous upkeep. Mileage accumulation is notably low for a 22-year-old vehicle, averaging roughly 4,508 miles per year. The record shows 97,177 miles in March 2024, 98,262 miles by March 2025, and 99,179 miles in March 2026, confirming consistent but very light annual use of approximately 900 to 1,100 miles. There are no sudden jumps or gaps in the odometer readings, indicating the mileage is credible and the vehicle has not stood idle for extended periods. This low mileage limits general wear on drivetrain and suspension components but does not eliminate age-related deterioration of rubber seals, bushes, and tyres. A buyer should inspect the exhaust system carefully. The major rear exhaust box leak flagged in the March 2026 failure was rectified for the pass, but the underlying cause, whether corrosion or a failed joint, warrants a physical check for weakened sections or temporary repairs. The persistent oil leak advisory, noted as not excessive in both March 2026 tests, likely originates from a rocker cover gasket, crankshaft seal, or gearbox output seal. A thorough underside inspection will confirm whether this is a slow weep or an active drip requiring attention. The headlamp aim faults corrected for the pass suggest possible previous bulb replacements or minor front-end disturbance; check for cracked lenses or loose mounting units. Tyre condition has been a recurring advisory. Both rear tyres were flagged for cracking or perishing in March 2026, and the nearside front tyre was worn close to the legal limit in 2025. This pattern indicates the vehicle has sat with tyres under-inflated or aged without regular replacement. Inspect all four tyres for sidewall damage, uneven tread, and date codes, particularly if the rears remain the originals flagged in March. The 2025 failure also identified excessive play in the nearside front and offside rear wheel bearings, which were rectified for the pass. Listen for humming or roughness at road speed, and check for play by rocking the wheels. While the current MOT is clean, the combination of a persistent oil weep, recurring tyre deterioration, and a recently repaired exhaust suggests a vehicle that runs but has not received comprehensive preventative maintenance.