2008 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · LL08 NEY

The most recent MOT test on the 2008 Ford Fiesta, conducted on 2025-09-08, resulted in a passing outcome, though it was accompanied by multiple advisories related to wheel distortion across all four tyres. This follows a pattern of recurring failures and advisories over the past several years, with the most notable previous MOT on 2025-08-29 marking a failure due to a major defect in the near-side rear wheel bearing exhibiting excessive play, alongside persistent wheel distortion issues. The earlier MOT on 2024-09-13 highlighted a dangerous condition of offside rear tyre wear below the legal minimum depth and a serious fluid leak from the near-side front shock absorber, indicating a deterioration in both suspension integrity and tyre management. While the vehicle passed in 2023, the 2022 and 2023 tests also revealed structural corrosion near the rear sills and corroded brake pipes, suggesting a concerning trend of underlying mechanical degradation that has not been fully addressed. The overall maintenance trend appears to be one of recurring issues rather than consistent stability, with several critical components showing signs of wear and potential failure. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 114,422 miles for an 18-year-old Fiesta represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,357 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and typical driving conditions. However, the consistency of mileage accumulation—particularly the absence of significant gaps between MOT tests—may imply either prolonged periods of light or stationary use, which can exacerbate issues like corrosion and fluid degradation, or it could reflect more aggressive driving that accelerates wear on components such as bearings, tyres, and suspension. The presence of wheel distortion and bearing defects suggests that the vehicle has undergone substantial lateral forces, potentially from rough roads, frequent cornering, or uneven load distribution. This wear pattern is compounded by the fact that the vehicle has not been serviced within a structured maintenance schedule, leaving critical systems like the suspension and braking components vulnerable to further deterioration. Given the recurring MOT advisories and failures, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle’s suspension and wheel assembly. Focus on the rear wheel bearings, which showed excessive play in the 2025-08-29 MOT failure; listen for unusual grinding or whining noises when driving over bumps or at speed, and check for excessive play in the wheel hubs when the vehicle is stationary. The wheel distortions noted in multiple MOTs may indicate misalignment or warping, which could lead to uneven tyre wear or handling issues; visually inspect the tyres for signs of excessive cupping, cupping, or lateral scuffing, and ensure the wheels are balanced and aligned. Additionally, examine the suspension components, particularly the coil springs and shock absorbers, for signs of sagging, leaks, or excessive bounce when the vehicle is lifted off the ground. If the near-side front shock absorber was leaking fluid in 2024, inspect the surrounding area for oil stains or a soft, spongy feel in the spring area during a test drive. For the braking system, the presence of corroded brake pipes in previous MOTs indicates a risk of fluid loss or structural failure, so check for any signs of fluid leakage around the brake lines and hoses, and ensure the brake pedal does not feel spongy or travel excessively when pressed. Inspect the brake discs and pads for signs of uneven wear, corrosion, or binding, particularly on the near-side rear where the MOT highlighted potential issues. The vehicle’s age and high mileage also warrant attention to the exhaust system, as corrosion and leaks can lead to emissions failures or structural compromise; listen for unusual rattling or hissing noises and check for exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system corrosion if applicable. Finally, address the tyre conditions urgently, as the offside rear tyre failed the 2024 MOT with tread depth below legal limits, and the near-side rear tyre showed signs of wear close to the legal limit. Replace all tyres to the legal minimum depth and consider rotating them to ensure even wear, and verify that the vehicle’s wheel alignment is correct to prevent premature tyre damage. Given the history of structural corrosion, also ensure the vehicle is supported by a jack or hoist during inspections to avoid any risk of collapse from weakened mounting points.