2018 Ford Fiesta 1.1L Petrol · LD18 MLN

The most recent DVSA examination on 13 April 2026 resulted in a pass, although it is worth noting that a failure was also recorded on the same date for an offside front headlamp aim that was too low, which was subsequently corrected and re-presented for the pass certificate. The overall trend over the past three years shows a mild deterioration from clean passes in 2022, 2023, and 2024, towards a pattern of advisories and a recurring headlamp defect in 2025 and 2026. Both headlamp items are essentially fitment and adjustment issues rather than indicators of deeper mechanical wear, but the recurrence suggests the headlamp securing mechanism or adjusters may be loose or damaged and warrants close physical inspection. With 63,974 miles recorded over eight years, this Fiesta has covered approximately 8,000 miles annually, which sits squarely within the typical range for a vehicle of this age and segment, implying reasonably consistent use rather than long periods of standing or excessively high motorway mileage. The mileage progression across MOT records appears steady without any unusually large jumps, and the relatively even distribution of usage means wear on consumables such as clutches, brakes, tyres, and suspension components should be broadly proportionate to that mileage rather than accelerated by neglect or excessive driving. The advisories relating to both front brake discs being worn, though not excessively, are particularly relevant for a prospective buyer. Brake discs have a finite service life and on a Fiesta of this age and mileage, surface wear and lip formation on the disc outer edges is normal progression. On a test drive, listen for any brake shudder through the steering wheel or pedal when stopping from higher speeds, which would indicate disc run-out or uneven wear, and check that the vehicle pulls neither left nor right under braking. Given the advisory, the front discs are likely approaching the threshold where replacement will become necessary within the next 10,000 to 20,000 miles, so a budgetary provision for a front brake disc and pad refresh should be factored into any purchase decision. The advisory recorded in 2025 regarding a smooth brake pedal is a less critical item, typically reflecting the rubber pedal pad wearing through use rather than any underlying hydraulic issue, though it is worth confirming that braking feel remains firm and responsive. Additionally, the 2021 advisory concerning a nearside rear tyre worn close to the legal limit and on its edge suggests that the rear axle geometry or tyre pressure maintenance may have been an issue historically, so on inspection verify that current rear tyres are wearing evenly across the full tread width. Beyond the recorded items, a buyer should also carry out age-related checks appropriate to an eight-year-old vehicle, including thorough inspection of all tyre sidewalls for perishing and crazing from age, even if tread depth remains adequate. The 12-volt battery is likely approaching the end of its typical service life and should be load tested, while brake fluid, which is hygroscopic and degrades on a calendar basis, should ideally be renewed regardless of mileage. Finally, examine the underbody, suspension bushes, coil springs, and exhaust system for any corrosion or fluid leaks, as these components suffer progressive deterioration with age irrespective of the relatively modest annual mileage.