2013 Ford Fiesta 1.5L Diesel · LB05 AAA

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT in February 2026, but the overall maintenance trend is concerning and appears to be worsening. While the car is currently roadworthy, the recurring and expanding list of advisories regarding the front suspension and steering components suggests a lack of proactive maintenance. The progression from a single ball joint advisory in 2024 to multiple suspension arm and track rod issues by 2026 indicates that mechanical wear is accelerating without corrective repairs, leaving the vehicle with several looming failures. With a recorded mileage of 84,338 miles over thirteen years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 6,488 miles per year. This is a typical usage profile for a small hatchback, suggesting it has not suffered from the extreme wear associated with high-mileage commuting nor the degradation caused by prolonged standing. However, at this age and mileage, rubber components, bushings, and dampers typically reach the end of their service life, which is reflected in the current state of the chassis and suspension. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the front end of the vehicle. The repeated advisories for suspension arm corrosion, ball joint play, and track rod end wear indicate that the front suspension geometry is likely compromised. During a test drive, listen for clunks or knocks when traversing uneven road surfaces or when turning the steering wheel at low speeds. The previous mention of a distorted wheel rim and the current edge-wear on the nearside front tyre suggest previous impact damage or poor wheel alignment, which will likely necessitate a full four-wheel alignment and the replacement of several suspension components to prevent further premature tyre wear. Immediate maintenance is required for the braking system and tyres. The thin brake pads noted in the latest test will require replacement shortly to avoid scoring the brake discs. Inspect the nearside front tyre for uneven wear patterns, which often signal the aforementioned suspension play. Given the vehicle's age, the buyer must verify the service history to ensure the timing belt and water pump have been replaced according to the manufacturer's interval, as failure of these components would be catastrophic. Finally, check for any signs of fluid leaks around the engine bay and ensure the 12V battery holds a steady charge.