2012 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · LL12 LLU

The most recent MOT assessment for this 2012 Ford Fiesta, conducted in April 2026, resulted in a pass following a failure regarding an inoperative registration plate lamp. While the vehicle has successfully passed its most recent inspection, the overall maintenance trend suggests a pattern of recurring mechanical wear rather than proactive preventative care. There is a persistent history of advisories related to suspension components and tyre condition that have appeared across multiple testing cycles. Although the immediate failure was a minor electrical issue, the continued presence of suspension and tyre advisories indicates that certain consumable parts are reaching the end of their serviceable life and require close monitoring. With a recorded mileage of 73,083 over approximately fourteen years, this vehicle has averaged roughly 5,220 miles per year. This is significantly lower than the UK national average, suggesting the car has been used primarily for short trips or has spent considerable periods stationary. While low mileage generally implies less wear on the engine and drivetrain, it can lead to specific age-related degradation. Long periods of standing can cause rubber components to perish, fluids to undergo chemical degradation, and brake components to suffer from surface corrosion or binding calipers due to lack of regular use. The MOT history highlights several recurring issues that demand scrutiny during a physical inspection and test drive. The offside front lower suspension arm ball joint has been flagged with slight play for several consecutive years, indicating progressive wear in the joint. You should listen for metallic clunking or knocking sounds when driving over uneven surfaces or turning the steering wheel, as this symptom typically worsens as the play increases. Furthermore, the history of tyre advisories, including both edge wear and sidewall cracking or perishing, suggests that while the tread depth may be sufficient, the rubber itself is likely becoming brittle due to age. Check the sidewalls of all tyres for fine cracks and ensure the tread is wearing evenly across the width to rule out alignment issues. Given the low annual mileage, you must also verify the vehicle's service history to ensure that time-based maintenance has been performed alongside mileage-based intervals. Check for evidence of regular oil changes and coolant flushes, as fluids can degrade even if the car is rarely driven. During your inspection, examine the brake discs for heavy corrosion and check that the brake pedal feels firm without any pulsation, which could indicate warped discs or worn pads. Additionally, inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and check the overall condition of the drive belts and various rubber hoses, as these components are prone to cracking and hardening when a vehicle is used infrequently.