2012 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · LL12 LRJ

The most recent MOT on 8 May 2026 was passed, with a single advisory noting slight play in the rear axle bushes. Over the last six years the vehicle has shown a mixed pattern: early on it suffered a major coil‑spring fracture in 2021, a serious lambda‑sensor exhaust emission failure in 2025 and a series of recurring advisories for oil leakage, front‑track rod end play, rear shock oil mist and front brake‑disc wear. Since the 2025 re‑test the car has passed each subsequent MOT, suggesting that the major faults have been remedied and the remaining items are now limited to wear‑related advisories. The trend can be described as stabilising, with the most significant defects having been addressed and only minor, progressive wear items persisting. At 89,426 mi the Fiesta averages roughly 6,400 mi per year, which is typical for a 14‑year‑old family hatchback. The mileage does not indicate any periods of unusually high use that would accelerate component fatigue, nor does it suggest long stretches of inactivity that could have allowed seals to dry out or batteries to deteriorate. The relatively moderate annual distance means that wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension should be in line with age‑related expectations rather than excessive mileage‑driven degradation. Prospective buyers should focus on the items that have appeared repeatedly in the MOT records. Inspect the rear axle bushes for any looseness or knocking when the car is rocked side‑to‑side, and listen for clunks over bumps that could indicate bush wear progressing beyond the advisory level. The front track rod end ball joint should be checked for free play; excessive movement can cause steering wander and uneven tyre wear, and may be audible as a ticking noise when turning. The rear shock absorbers, which have shown light oil misting on both sides, should be examined for leakage around the rod seals and for a loss of damping – a sagging rear or a “bouncy” feel on rough surfaces would be a clear symptom. Front brake discs, already noted as pitted and scored, should be measured for thickness and inspected for deep scoring; any pulsation in the pedal or squeal under braking would indicate that replacement is imminent. Finally, locate the source of the oil leak noted in 2025 – common points are the valve cover gasket or oil filter housing – and verify that the leak is truly minor and not causing oil level loss or smoke. Given the car’s age, a thorough visual and tactile inspection of time‑related components is essential. Check all four tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot or uneven tread, especially if the vehicle has spent periods stationary. Examine the 12 V battery for corrosion on terminals and test its cranking voltage, as batteries over ten years often require replacement. Verify that the coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid have been changed within the recommended intervals; old fluids can become acidic or moisture‑laden, leading to corrosion or reduced performance. Confirm that service stamps in the logbook correspond with the MOT dates and that any major repairs – notably the coil‑spring replacement and exhaust lambda correction – were carried out by a reputable garage with appropriate warranty. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the Fiesta’s current roadworthiness and the likely cost of upcoming maintenance.