2011 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Petrol · LP60 XOZ

The 2011 Ford Fiesta presents a mixed mechanical picture, with a recent pass that masks a history of deteriorating suspension and drivetrain components. The maintenance trend appears reactive rather than preventative. In the June 2025 test at 70,125 miles, the tester flagged excessively worn rear sub-frame pins and bushes, along with a track rod end ball joint exhibiting excessive play. The owner rectified these structural faults for the subsequent pass, yet the underlying pattern suggests deferred upkeep. The most recent June 2026 test at 80,247 miles passed, but only after the garage rectified a headlamp failure and a torn offside rear tyre, while an oil leak from the gearbox seal persists as an advisory. Covering roughly 5,350 miles annually over 15 years, this Fiesta has seen exceptionally light use. The 10,122-mile jump between June 2025 and June 2026 indicates a sudden spike in usage after a period of low mileage. Such sporadic operation often leads to premature deterioration of rubber components and battery drain, which aligns with the degraded tyre sidewalls and perishing dust covers noted in the records. The low annual mileage also means brake discs and pads corrode from standing rather than wearing down from friction, potentially causing binding or uneven surfaces not explicitly tested here. A physical inspection must focus on the sub-frame and drivetrain, given the recurring issues. The tester flagged excessively worn rear sub-frame pins and bushes in June 2025, a critical structural concern that demands checking for corrosion or cracking on the mounting points. The offside front constant velocity boot was severely deteriorated in June 2024 and again in June 2025, implying potential joint contamination or recent patch repairs; examine this closely for splits or grease leakage. The persistent gearbox seal oil leak requires immediate attention to prevent low fluid levels damaging the transmission. Scrutinise the rear tyres and suspension ball joint dust covers, as the history shows repeated perishing and structural failures indicating prolonged neglect of consumable wear items.