2011 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · LL60 GVR

The most recent DVSA test on 18 July 2026 resulted in a pass with only a minor advisory recorded for a windscreen damage that does not adversely affect the driver's view, which is a broadly positive outcome and suggests the vehicle is presently roadworthy. However, the overall maintenance trend across the last four test cycles shows a gradual increase of cosmetic and lighting defects, with the windscreen damage being flagged in three consecutive tests and a nearside rear reflector defect noted in 2024. While none of these items are structurally serious, the recurring windscreen damage warrants replacement before it progresses into the driver's primary line of sight, and the reflector defect should be rectified to ensure compliance with construction and lighting regulations. A more concerning historical entry remains the 2022 failure which recorded dangerous tyre tread depths on all four corners and a major defect for an excessively worn offside front lower suspension arm ball joint, although the vehicle has subsequently passed three consecutive tests without recurrence. With 98,458 miles recorded against a 2011 manufacture date, the Fiesta has averaged approximately 6,564 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and segment, indicating regular rather than excessive use. There are no significant gaps in the MOT testing record, with annual tests consistently undertaken, which suggests the car has remained in continuous use throughout its life. This steady annual usage pattern is mechanically favourable as it implies regular fluid cycling, brake and tyre rotation, and general component exercise, reducing the likelihood of standing-related deterioration such as seized brake calipers, perished suspension bushes, or internal corrosion in the exhaust and braking systems. Given the dangerous tyre tread defect recorded in 2022 and the advisory issued at the same test for front brake disc wear with pitting and scoring, a prospective buyer should undertake a thorough physical inspection of the braking and suspension systems prior to purchase. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking from the front suspension over speed bumps and uneven road surfaces, as the previously replaced ball joint should be checked along with the condition of the lower arms, bushes, and anti-roll bar drop links, all of which are known wear items on this generation of Fiesta. The brake pedal feel should be firm and progressive without any excessive travel, and during a moderate stop from around 30 mph, the steering should remain stable without any vibration or pulling, as this would indicate warped or excessively worn front brake discs. Inspect the discs visually through the wheel spokes for a sharp lip on the outer edge and any deep scoring or corrosion pitting across the friction surface. Tyres should be carefully examined for both legal tread depth and more critically for age-related perishing or cracking in the sidewalls, as the vehicle is now 15 years old and rubber compounds deteriorate with calendar age regardless of mileage. Verify the production date code on the tyre sidewalls and replace any tyres exceeding six years of age irrespective of remaining tread. The 12 volt battery is another common failure point on a vehicle of this age and should be load tested if possible, particularly as the original Ford specification units frequently require replacement around this mileage. Finally, confirm the service history documentation including cambelt replacement intervals, as the 1.25 or 1.4 Duratec engines fitted to this model are timing belt driven and replacement is typically required between 60,000 and 100,000 miles or at eight to ten year intervals, whichever is reached first, making this an immediate priority if evidence of the work cannot be produced.