2018 Ford Fiesta 1.5L Diesel · LP67 RZB

The latest MOT test result on 2026-01-27 shows the vehicle passed with two advisories concerning tyre wear and condition, indicating a stable but concerning maintenance trend. Over the past five years, the car has consistently passed MOTs, though the presence of recurring advisories—particularly around tyre edge wear, side-wall cracking, and rear brake disc pitting—suggests a pattern of gradual wear progression rather than sudden failure. The absence of any major defects or failures in the intervening years implies that while the vehicle is approaching the limits of its structural and component longevity, it remains roadworthy under current conditions. The advisories do not currently pose an immediate risk to safety but warrant close monitoring, as they reflect ongoing degradation that could escalate if left unaddressed. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 80,159 miles at a current count of 2026-09-01 aligns with a typical annual usage rate of around 10,020 miles, which is consistent with its age of approximately eight years. This usage profile suggests moderate, regular driving rather than extreme conditions or prolonged periods of inactivity, though the mileage does not appear unusually high for a car of this age. However, the consistency of advisories—particularly those related to tyres and brakes—could imply that the vehicle has been driven under conditions that accelerate wear, such as frequent stops, uneven load distribution, or exposure to harsh road surfaces. The lack of significant mileage gaps does not suggest neglect, but the wear patterns indicate that consumables and critical components are approaching their operational limits, necessitating proactive maintenance to prevent premature failure. As a prospective buyer, you should conduct a thorough pre-purchase inspection to assess the severity of the recorded advisories and identify any underlying issues that may not have been flagged by the MOT. Begin with a visual inspection of the tyres, focusing on the edge wear and side-wall cracking noted in the advisories. Look for signs of uneven wear patterns, which could indicate alignment or suspension issues, and check for any additional cracks or bulges that might suggest internal tyre damage. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the front suspension, such as clunks or rattles, which could indicate worn or failing suspension bushes, springs, or struts. Additionally, examine the rear brake system for signs of excessive heat discolouration on the discs or a spongy or pulsating brake pedal, which may indicate pitted discs or binding calipers. Inspect the rear tyres for similar wear or damage, and check for any fluid leaks around the wheels, particularly near the brake calipers and wheel bearings. For fluid systems, given the vehicle’s age, pay special attention to the condition of the brake fluid, engine oil, and coolant. Brake fluid should be checked for moisture contamination, which can lead to corrosion and reduced braking performance. The engine oil should be fresh and free of excessive sludge or metal particles, and the coolant should be topped up to prevent overheating and potential water pump failure. The 12V battery should be tested for voltage output and overall health, as older vehicles are more susceptible to battery failure, especially if the car has been left in a stationary position for extended periods. Finally, verify that the service book is up to date, particularly for the timing belt, if applicable, and any scheduled maintenance such as suspension component replacements or exhaust emissions servicing. If the vehicle has been driven under light conditions with fewer miles, consider checking for signs of standing corrosion on the undercarriage, particularly around the wheel arches, exhaust system, and underbody components, as prolonged inactivity can accelerate rust formation.