2012 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Diesel · LB12 FSS

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 20 March 2026, but the overall maintenance trend is clearly worsening. Although the vehicle has consistently achieved passing results, the severity and frequency of advisories have increased significantly over the last three years. The exhaust system has progressed from being noted as heavily corroded in 2023 to being described as badly deteriorated in 2026. This indicates a progressive structural failure of the exhaust silencer that will require replacement in the near future to avoid a mandatory MOT failure. With 88,151 miles recorded over approximately 14 years, the vehicle averages roughly 6,300 miles per year. This represents a relatively low annual mileage, which is typical for many domestic vehicles. While this lower usage suggests less mechanical strain on the engine and drivetrain, it can also imply that the vehicle has been used for short trips or has spent periods of time stationary. Such usage patterns can lead to age-related degradation of rubber components and fluids that is not always reflected by the odometer reading. Prospective buyers should pay particular attention to the recurring advisories regarding the exhaust and the nearside front wheel. The deteriorating rear exhaust silencer is a primary concern; during a test drive, listen for loud, raspy, or uneven exhaust notes and check for any excessive vibrations or the smell of exhaust fumes entering the cabin. The nearside front wheel has a distorted inner rim that has been flagged in multiple consecutive tests. This defect can cause uneven tyre wear or vibrations through the steering wheel at certain speeds. You must inspect the nearside front tyre closely for any signs of bulging or irregular tread wear patterns caused by this rim distortion. Additionally, the deterioration of the registration plates should be noted, as they may soon fail to meet legal visibility standards. Given the vehicle's age and lower mileage, you should also inspect the rubber components, such as suspension bushes and tyre sidewalls, for signs of perishing or cracking. Check the brake discs for heavy corrosion and ensure the calipers are not binding, which can occur if the car has been driven infrequently. Finally, verify the service history to ensure that fluids like brake fluid and coolant have been changed according to calendar intervals, as time-based degradation is a significant factor in older, lower-mileage vehicles.