2015 Ford Fiesta 1.5L Diesel · LJ05 AMJ

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 1 November 2025 with no defects recorded. However, the overall maintenance trend appears inconsistent and reactive. The history reveals significant failures in both 2023 and 2025, specifically involving structural wheel damage, tyre integrity, and suspension failure. While the most recent clean pass is positive, the frequency of major and dangerous failures suggests a pattern of neglecting components until they reach a critical state of failure rather than adhering to a preventative maintenance schedule. With 76,564 miles recorded over an eleven year period, the vehicle has averaged approximately 6,960 miles per year. This is considered typical usage for a small hatchback of this vintage. This mileage suggests that while the engine and drivetrain should not be excessively worn, the vehicle has reached an age where rubber bushings, seals, and calendar-based service items are likely to be nearing the end of their operational life. The moderate mileage means the car has avoided the extreme wear of a high-mileage commuter but has also avoided the specific risks associated with long-term standing. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the suspension and chassis. The 2025 failure for a fractured nearside rear coil spring and the advisory for corrosion on the offside rear spring indicate a vulnerability to rust and fatigue in the rear axle area. During a test drive, listen for metallic clunks or knocks over speed bumps and inspect the vehicle stance for any unevenness. Furthermore, the 2023 records of distorted road wheels and tyre bulges are concerning, as these often result from heavy impact. Ensure the steering is centered and there is no vibration through the steering wheel at motorway speeds, which would indicate lingering alignment issues or wheel imbalance. The previous failure regarding an inoperative or malfunctioning engine management light requires verification. You must ensure that the underlying fault was mechanically resolved and not simply cleared via a diagnostic tool to pass the test. Check that the MIL illuminates during the ignition cycle and remains off during operation. Given the age of the vehicle, verify the service history for the timing belt and water pump replacement, as these are critical failure points for this model. Finally, inspect the brake discs for heavy corrosion and check the tyre sidewalls for perishing or cracking, ensuring that the previous tyre and wheel issues have been fully rectified with quality replacements.