2004 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · LC04 AAV

The most recent MOT test conducted in January 2025 resulted in a pass with no defects recorded, which suggests the vehicle is currently in a roadworthy condition. Looking at the broader history, the maintenance trend appears stable but reactive, with a pattern of failures relating to front-end suspension and lighting. While the vehicle has passed its recent inspections, the previous failures for major components indicate that wear-and-tear items are addressed only upon failure rather than through a preventative maintenance schedule. The recorded mileage of 76,653 miles is exceptionally low for a twenty-two year old vehicle, averaging approximately 3,484 miles per year. While this suggests limited mechanical wear on the engine and gearbox, such low usage often implies long periods of standing or frequent short-distance journeys. This usage profile can be more detrimental than consistent motorway mileage, as it increases the likelihood of fluid degradation, carbon build-up in the engine, and the perishing of rubber seals and bushings due to lack of regular exercise. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the front steering and suspension geometry. The history of failures regarding the track rod end and suspension arm ball joint, combined with recurring advisories for tyres worn on the edges, points toward potential alignment issues or worn suspension bushes. During a test drive, listen for any knocking or clunking sounds when traversing uneven surfaces and check for any vagueness or play in the steering wheel. Ensure the current tyres exhibit even tread wear across the width to confirm that the previous steering faults have been fully rectified. Given the vehicle's age and low annual mileage, a physical inspection should focus on time-based degradation. Examine all tyre sidewalls for hairline cracking or perishing, as rubber hardens over time regardless of the remaining tread. Check the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion and ensure the calipers are not binding, a common issue for cars that sit idle. It is essential to verify the service history for calendar-based oil and coolant changes, as these fluids lose their chemical properties over time. Finally, inspect the nearside rear cill area for the damage noted in 2024 to ensure that surface corrosion has not progressed into structural rust.