2020 Ford Puma ST-Line X Auto 1.0L Petrol · LL70 LSF

The 2020 Ford Puma ST-Line X Auto received its latest MOT test on 30th October 2025, which resulted in a passing grade, though it included an advisory regarding the nearside front tyre’s wear. This advisory, classified under 5.2.3(e) of the DVSA’s tyre inspection criteria, indicates that the tyre’s tread depth has approached the legal minimum on the outer edge, a condition that could compromise hydroplaning safety and traction in wet conditions. The presence of this advisory, coupled with the absence of any failures in the preceding three MOT tests—including those in 2023, 2024 February, and November—suggests a stable maintenance trend thus far, with no evidence of worsening mechanical issues. However, the advisory serves as a critical reminder that further wear progression could lead to a failure in a subsequent test, particularly if the tyre is driven heavily or exposed to prolonged periods of low tread depth. The recorded mileage of 33,954 miles for a vehicle aged six years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 5,659 miles per annum. Such a mileage figure is unusually low for a car of this age and specification, which typically accumulates around 10,000 to 12,000 miles annually under normal driving conditions. The discrepancy between the vehicle’s age and mileage could imply either a period of extended inactivity, such as long-term storage or infrequent use, or a more deliberate, lower-mileage lifestyle. However, low mileage alone does not guarantee mechanical soundness, as prolonged standing can accelerate wear on components like brakes, suspension bushes, and seals due to corrosion and lubricant breakdown. Additionally, if the vehicle has been driven sporadically, the engine and drivetrain may exhibit signs of wear from intermittent operation, such as increased oil consumption or unusual noises during acceleration or deceleration. Given the advisory on the nearside front tyre and the vehicle’s age and mileage profile, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the tyres, focusing on the tread depth and sidewall condition. The tyre’s outer edge wear suggests that the tread may be unevenly worn, which could indicate misalignment, incorrect tyre pressure, or poor suspension geometry. On a test drive, listen for signs of uneven tyre wear, such as clunking noises when cornering or driving over bumps, which may reveal misalignment or suspension issues. Additionally, check for any cracks or perishing in the sidewall, as this can weaken the tyre structure and lead to blowouts, particularly in older vehicles. Beyond the tyres, examine the front suspension for signs of wear, including clunking or rattling noises when moving over rough roads, which could indicate worn suspension bushes, broken coil springs, or damaged control arms. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, also inspect the brakes for corrosion or binding calipers, as standing can cause brake discs to corrode or seize, leading to reduced braking performance. For the broader mechanical assessment, the buyer should verify the vehicle’s service history, particularly for fluid servicing, as low mileage combined with age means that fluids like brake fluid, differential fluid, and coolant may have degraded over time. Brake fluid should be checked for moisture content, which can lead to corrosion in the hydraulic system; if the fluid is dark or has a burnt smell, it should be replaced. The differential and transmission fluids should also be inspected, with a recommendation for replacement if they appear dark or have a burnt odour, as these fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. Additionally, the 12V battery should be tested for health, as prolonged disuse can cause corrosion on terminals and reduced capacity. Finally, a visual inspection of the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion is advisable, as prolonged standing can accelerate rust formation in the catalytic converter and exhaust manifolds. If the vehicle has been driven regularly, the buyer should also check for signs of oil consumption or unusual engine noises, which could indicate internal wear or a failing piston ring or valve train component.