2015 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Petrol · LM65 FFK

The defining feature of this 2015 Ford Fiesta's MOT record is the emergence of structural corrosion at the rear subframe, flagged as an advisory at the December 2025 test after four consecutive clean passes between 2021 and 2024. While the examiner recorded that structural rigidity is not significantly reduced at this stage, the appearance of subframe corrosion on an 11-year-old Fiesta is a meaningful indicator that the corrosion process is active and likely to progress. A prospective buyer should treat this not as an immediate failure point but as the leading edge of a developing condition that warrants close physical inspection, because subframe corrosion on this model can spread to mounting points, suspension linkages, and brake line brackets if left unchecked. With 53,904 miles recorded against an 11-year span, this Fiesta has covered roughly 4,900 miles annually, which is notably low for the age and platform. The mileage progression between tests has been modest and broadly consistent, with no sudden jumps that would suggest tachometer inconsistency or extended motorway use, but the relatively low annual figure does mean components such as the brake discs, callipers, and lower suspension bushes may have suffered from prolonged stationary periods. Low-mileage Fiestas frequently present with seized calliper slide pins, surface corrosion on brake discs causing judder under initial braking, and dried or cracked suspension bushes that transmit noise and vibration into the cabin. These are not always visible during a stationary inspection, so a thorough test drive is essential. On a road test, particular attention should be paid to the rear suspension, given the subframe advisory. Listen for clonking or knocking noises from the rear over uneven surfaces, which can indicate compromised bush compliance or movement between the trailing arms and the corroded subframe mounting points. Steering should be checked for vagueness or pulling to one side, and the rear should be inspected from beneath the vehicle for any visible flaking, paint bubbling, or white oxidation around the subframe longitudinals, trailing arm pockets, and the areas around the rear brake pipe brackets. If corrosion has migrated to the brake line clips, this can lead to chafing and ultimately a brake fluid leak, so a careful visual examination along the full length of the rear brake pipes is worthwhile. The braking system itself should be evaluated dynamically, beginning with a firm pedal application from around 30 mph to detect any pulsation through the pedal, which would suggest warped or corroded brake discs. Listen for any grinding or scraping from the rear axle area, and check that the handbrake holds the vehicle securely on an incline, as a seizing rear calliper is a common low-mileage Fiesta symptom. Under the bonnet, inspect for any signs of oil residue around the cam cover or sump, and verify that all fluid levels are topped up and clean. Given that the most recent advisory specifically concerned the rear subframe and the vehicle is now entering the age range where corrosion faults become more prevalent, a borescope or physical examination of the subframe mounting areas by a competent technician would be a prudent step before committing to purchase.