2018 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · LL67 SZP

The most recent MOT test on the 2018 Ford Fiesta, conducted on 2025-10-27, resulted in a clean pass with no recorded defects, marking a positive outcome following a history of advisories in prior tests. The overall maintenance trend appears stable, with no evidence of worsening mechanical issues or repeated failures. The vehicle has consistently passed MOT assessments over the last three years, suggesting that while some wear-related advisories have been noted—particularly concerning tyre condition—they have not progressed to failure levels, indicating either proactive maintenance or moderate usage patterns that have mitigated more severe wear. The recorded mileage of 81,797 miles for an eight-year-old vehicle represents an average annual mileage of approximately 10,225 miles, which is within the expected range for this age and model. This usage rate suggests a moderate to high level of driving activity, which can accelerate wear on consumables such as tyres, brake pads, suspension components, and fluid systems. The advisories from previous MOTs, particularly regarding tyre wear and minor tyre damage, are consistent with the mileage accumulation, implying that the tyres have undergone significant use and are nearing their operational lifespan. The lack of significant mileage gaps indicates that the vehicle has been in regular use, which may have contributed to the observed tyre wear patterns. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the tyres, given the advisories from the DVSA records. The nearside front tyre’s wear close to the legal limit and the outer-edge wear suggest that it is approaching the point where it may fail an MOT if not replaced soon. Buyers should visually inspect the tyres for cracks, bulges, or uneven tread wear, and consider replacing them before they reach the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6mm. On a test drive, listen for any unusual tyre noise, such as a grinding or scraping sound, which could indicate worn or damaged treads or internal tyre damage. Additionally, check for any signs of tyre perishing, particularly on the sidewalls, which can compromise structural integrity and safety. Beyond tyres, the vehicle’s suspension and braking systems should be thoroughly examined. The minor cracking or perishing advisories on the rear tyres from previous MOTs may indicate underlying issues with tyre storage, age-related degradation, or previous damage that has not yet progressed to a critical level. Inspect the rear tyres for any signs of dry rot or sidewall damage, as these can lead to sudden failure. During a test drive, pay attention to the vehicle’s handling and suspension behaviour—look for excessive clunking or rattling from the suspension bushes, coil springs, or control arms, which can signal wear or damage. Also, test the braking system by applying the brakes firmly at various speeds to check for any binding calipers, excessive brake pedal travel, or a shuddering sensation, which could indicate warped brake discs or worn brake pads. Given the vehicle’s age and usage, it is prudent to have the brake system inspected, particularly the discs and pads, to ensure they are in good condition. Lastly, consider checking the 12V battery and associated electrical systems, as prolonged periods of inactivity or high mileage can lead to battery degradation or corrosion, which may affect starter and accessory performance. A visual inspection of the battery terminals for corrosion and a test of the battery’s charge capacity would be advisable. For fluid systems, such as the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant, focus on their age and condition, as fluids degrade over time even when not used. Given the vehicle’s age, a comprehensive fluid check and potential top-up or replacement may be recommended, particularly for the brake fluid, which can absorb moisture and reduce effectiveness.