2012 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · LL12 DFD

The 2012 Ford Fiesta’s latest MOT test on 2026-04-28 resulted in a passing grade, though it marked a return to stability after two consecutive failures in 2025. The record shows a clear pattern of recurring advisories related to the offside front inner tyre exhibiting signs of cracking or perishing, which were present in every MOT since 2025, alongside intermittent failures of the near-side rear stop lamp. While the vehicle passed in 2024 with no defects, the persistence of these issues—particularly the tyre advisories—suggests either a history of underinflation, exposure to harsh environmental conditions, or a structural vulnerability to tyre degradation. The stop lamp failures indicate a potential wiring issue or bulb failure, which, if unresolved, could lead to further electrical faults or safety concerns if the lamp remains non-functional. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 40,544 miles over approximately 14 years represents an annual average of around 2,896 miles, which is notably lower than would be expected for a car of this age and model, particularly given its 2012 production year. Such low mileage can result from infrequent use, long periods of stationary storage, or a preference for alternative transportation methods. However, this usage profile carries specific implications for component wear. Tyres, for instance, may have experienced less tread degradation from low mileage but could still suffer from sidewall damage due to prolonged exposure to UV radiation, temperature fluctuations, or improper storage conditions. Additionally, standing for extended periods can lead to corrosion in the brake system, particularly on the offside rear calipers or discs, as well as potential battery degradation from reduced current draw. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the tyres, as the repeated MOT advisories on cracking or perishing indicate a need for immediate attention. Visually examine the offside front tyre for any signs of delamination, dry rot, or separation of the sidewall layers, which could compromise structural integrity and lead to sudden failure. On a test drive, listen for unusual tyre noise, such as a grinding or scraping sound, which may indicate uneven wear or a potential sidewall blowout risk. The near-side rear stop lamp failure suggests a need to verify the bulb’s functionality and trace the wiring harness for any signs of corrosion or damage. If the lamp remains non-functional, the wiring should be inspected for continuity and any potential short circuits that could affect other electrical systems. Beyond the MOT findings, given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, a thorough physical inspection is essential. Check the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing, such as brittle, cracked, or cracked rubber, which can occur from age alone even without significant mileage. Inspect the brake discs and calipers for signs of corrosion, particularly on the offside rear, as standing can accelerate rust formation. Verify the brake fluid level and condition, as standing vehicles can lead to fluid degradation over time, which may result in a spongy or inconsistent brake pedal feel. Additionally, assess the 12V battery health by testing its charge capacity and ensuring no signs of corrosion on the terminals. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, consider checking the service history for time-based maintenance, such as the timing belt replacement (if applicable) and fluid servicing, including the brake, coolant, and differential fluids, which should have been addressed according to Ford’s recommended intervals. If the service book is not available, a professional inspection should confirm whether these services have been completed or are overdue.