2008 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Diesel · LL08 GWA

The vehicle presents a concerning state of roadworthiness with a clear trend of worsening mechanical neglect. While it passed its most recent test in December 2025 at 173,231 miles, it did so with multiple significant advisories that mirror previous critical failure points. The failure in November 2025 was particularly severe, involving emissions failures, major exhaust leaks, and steering rack defects, suggesting that the owner only addresses the minimum repairs required to obtain a certificate rather than performing proactive preventative maintenance. The mileage pattern is consistent with an 18-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 9,600 miles per year. However, there is a notable spike in usage between November 2024 and November 2025, where the car covered over 10,000 miles in just 12 months. This rapid accumulation coincides with the appearance of serious engine-related issues and exhaust failures. The gap between the December 2025 test and the current date of June 2026 means the vehicle has run for six months without a fresh inspection, masking further deterioration of the flagged suspension components. A buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the steering and suspension integrity. The record shows recurring play in the steering rack inner joints and deteriorated dust covers on the anti-roll bar linkage and lower suspension arms. These faults indicate significant wear that could lead to unpredictable handling characteristics. Furthermore, the exhaust system is a major concern; the history of major leaks and black smoke emissions in late 2025 suggests potential engine-management issues or a failing particulate filter that may be costly to rectify.