2015 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · LP65 ARX

The most recent MOT test on the 2015 Ford Fiesta recorded a failure with multiple critical and advisory defects, including a near-side rear tyre bulge indicative of catastrophic structural failure, a malfunctioning tyre pressure monitoring system, and a dangerous obstruction of the near-side rear stop lamp by another lamp’s operation. This marks a significant deterioration from the clean pass received just six months prior, where only a minor offside front tyre wear advisory was noted. The pattern suggests either a sudden mechanical failure or a series of cumulative wear issues that have not been adequately addressed, particularly concerning the suspension and tyre integrity. The presence of a persistent offside front lower suspension arm ball joint with slight play in both tests highlights a recurring mechanical concern that may require immediate attention to prevent further alignment or steering system compromise. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 70,401 miles over approximately 11 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 6,400 miles, which is typical for a car of this age and class. While this mileage is not exceptionally high, it does not necessarily correlate with excessive wear if the vehicle has been maintained regularly or operated under varied conditions. However, the absence of service records or evidence of fluid top-ups beyond the MOT suggests potential neglect in routine maintenance, particularly for consumables like brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, which degrade over time even with moderate mileage. The possibility of long periods of inactivity—common in lower-mileage vehicles—could also contribute to issues such as brake disc corrosion from standing, suspension stiffness from fluid loss, or battery degradation due to prolonged disuse. Given the recent MOT failures, the buyer should conduct a thorough inspection focusing on the suspension and tyre systems, as these are the primary areas of concern. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the offside front suspension, such as clunks or rattles, which may indicate further wear in the ball joint or associated components. Inspect the near-side rear tyre for signs of further bulging or separation, and check for uneven wear patterns that could suggest misalignment or suspension failure. The presence of a tyre pressure monitoring system malfunction suggests a deeper issue with the vehicle’s tyre management, so verify that all tyres are properly inflated and that the system is functioning correctly. Immediate attention should be given to the offside front suspension arm ball joint, as slight play can lead to steering instability or premature wear on tyres and suspension components. If the vehicle’s history were cleaner, with no recurring failures and a more consistent maintenance record, the buyer would still need to perform essential checks. Given the age and mileage, inspect the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise structural integrity and safety. Check the brake system for corrosion on discs or binding calipers, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. Verify the condition of the 12V battery and associated electrical systems, as older vehicles are prone to battery failure or parasitic drain issues. Additionally, assess the fluid levels and condition of critical systems—such as coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid—considering their calendar-based degradation rather than mileage alone. Ensure that service book stamps are present for the last scheduled oil change and other major maintenance intervals, as this provides a baseline for expected wear progression. If any of these checks reveal issues, prioritise addressing them promptly to avoid further roadworthiness or safety risks.