2012 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · LD12 LWW

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 5 August 2026, but the overall maintenance trend appears to be worsening. While it has achieved a pass, the most recent test was preceded by a failure for a fractured nearside front coil spring, and the resulting certificate contains several significant advisories. The recurring nature of exhaust leaks and the sudden emergence of suspension and wheel geometry issues suggest that the vehicle is entering a phase of increased mechanical degradation that has not been proactively managed by the previous owner. With a recorded mileage of 88,935 miles over fourteen years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 6,352 miles per year. This represents a typical usage profile for a small hatchback, suggesting it has avoided the extreme wear associated with high-mileage commuting as well as the stagnation issues found in vehicles that have stood for extended periods. However, at this age and mileage, rubber components, suspension bushings, and engine seals are reaching the end of their natural service life, making the recent failure of a coil spring a predictable development for a vehicle of this vintage. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the front end of the vehicle. The combination of distorted front wheels and inner edge tyre wear strongly suggests a misalignment of the steering geometry or damage to the suspension components, possibly resulting from an impact such as a pothole. During a test drive, listen for any clunks or knocks over uneven surfaces and check for a pull in the steering. The distorted wheels may cause high-speed vibrations through the steering wheel, and the inner tyre wear indicates that a full four-wheel alignment is required to prevent the premature replacement of the front tyres. The recurring advisories regarding exhaust leaks, specifically at the rear join, indicate a gradual degradation of the exhaust system that will eventually lead to an emissions failure or increased noise. Listen for a rasping or blowing sound from the underside of the car while idling and accelerating. Additionally, while the 2023 advisories for binding front brakes were not mentioned in the latest test, it is prudent to check for excessive heat emanating from the brake discs after a short drive, as binding calipers can lead to premature pad wear and reduced braking efficiency. Finally, verify that the recently replaced coil spring has been installed correctly and that all registration lamps are fully operational.