2017 Ford Fiesta 1.5L Diesel · LB17 EBL

The most recent MOT on 3 March 2026 was a clean pass with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle presently satisfies the statutory safety and emissions criteria. Over the six‑year record the car has shown a mixed pattern: two early failures in 2022 and early 2024 relating to the nearside front side‑repeat indicator, a wiper inefficiency and, more seriously, an off‑side front tyre bulge and near‑limit tread on the nearside front tyre. Both of those failures appear to have been rectified, as the subsequent 2025 and 2026 tests passed without comment, suggesting an improving maintenance trend after the identified faults were addressed. At 89,505 mi the Fiesta averages just under 10,000 mi per annum, which is broadly typical for a nine‑year‑old small family car. The mileage progression is steady with no evidence of long periods of inactivity that might have encouraged corrosion or fluid degradation, nor any sudden spikes that would imply high‑stress use. Consequently the wear on major wear items such as the clutch, gearbox and suspension components is likely to be commensurate with normal age‑related deterioration rather than accelerated fatigue. The most pressing items to verify are the front tyres and the nearside side‑repeat indicator. The off‑side front tyre was recorded with a structural bulge in March 2024; a bulge often signals internal ply separation and can lead to sudden failure, so the buyer should confirm that the tyre has been replaced and inspect the current tyre for any sidewall cracks, tread irregularities or age‑related hardening (look for cracking on the sidewalls, especially if the tyre is over three years old). The nearside front tyre was noted as being close to the legal tread limit and worn on the edge, which can cause reduced grip and uneven wear; ensure that both front tyres now have adequate tread depth (minimum 1.6 mm) and that the wear pattern is even, indicating correct wheel alignment and suspension geometry. Verify that the nearside front side‑repeat indicator functions correctly and that the wiper clears the windscreen effectively; a non‑functioning indicator can mask a fault elsewhere, and a weak wiper may compromise visibility in rain. During a test drive listen for any tyre‑related noises such as thumping or vibration, and watch for any warning lights or intermittent flashing that could indicate an intermittent electrical fault. Given the vehicle’s age, a thorough visual and tactile inspection of age‑sensitive components is advisable. Check the tyre sidewalls for dry‑rot or cracking, especially if the tyres are older than three years regardless of tread depth. Inspect the 12‑volt battery for signs of sulfation, low electrolyte levels or a weak cranking response; a battery over five years old may need replacement. Examine the brake discs for surface corrosion, scoring or uneven wear, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding, as prolonged standing can cause pistons to seize. Look over the suspension bushes, ball joints and coil springs for any signs of oil leakage, cracking or excessive play, and verify that the exhaust system is free of rust perforations. Finally, confirm that the service history includes regular oil and filter changes, coolant flushes and timing belt (or chain) inspections appropriate to the mileage, as time‑based fluid degradation can affect engine reliability even when mileage is modest.