2017 Ford Fiesta 1.1L Petrol · LR67 CSU

The most recent MOT test on the 2017 Ford Fiesta, conducted on 2025-12-11, resulted in a passing outcome with two advisories that reflect ongoing but manageable wear and minor issues. The overall maintenance trend over the past several years appears to be stable rather than deteriorating, though there are recurring advisories that suggest gradual degradation in specific components. The front tyre wear close to the legal limit on both sides and the thin condition of the front brake pads are consistent findings, indicating that these systems are approaching or have exceeded their expected service life relative to the vehicle’s age and usage. The rear tyre cracking and the persistent minor exhaust leak also warrant attention, as these could escalate if not addressed promptly, potentially leading to further MOT failures or reduced fuel efficiency and emissions compliance. The recorded mileage of 56,935 miles for a vehicle aged nine years represents an average annual usage of approximately 6,326 miles, which is within the typical range for this model and age bracket. However, the MOT history reveals some periods of potential underutilisation, particularly between 2021 and 2022, where the vehicle may have been stationary for extended durations, as suggested by the repeated minor exhaust leaks and the failure in 2022 linked to a tyre pressure monitoring system malfunction. Standing for prolonged periods can exacerbate issues such as brake pad corrosion, caliper binding, and fluid degradation in the exhaust system, leading to the observed advisories. Conversely, the rapid wear on front tyres and brake pads suggests that the vehicle has undergone some active use, particularly in the earlier years, which has accelerated component wear beyond what might be expected from low-mileage conditions alone. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination and test drive include the front brake system, front tyres, and exhaust components. The advisories regarding front tyre wear close to the legal limit and the thin condition of the brake pads indicate that the discs and pads should be closely monitored for further reduction in thickness or glazing, which could lead to reduced braking performance or failure during a test drive. Listen for a grinding noise when applying the brakes, which would signal worn pads or damaged discs, and check for uneven brake pad wear or excessive heat marks on the discs. During the test drive, observe for any pulsations or vibrations in the steering wheel or pedal, which could indicate warped brake discs or binding calipers. Additionally, the front tyres should be inspected for sidewall cracking or perishing, as the repeated advisories suggest they may have been exposed to prolonged storage conditions, which can accelerate tyre degradation. Ensure the tyres are properly inflated and check for any signs of uneven tread wear, which could indicate suspension or alignment issues. The rear tyres, which have shown signs of cracking or perishing, should be replaced before they reach the legal minimum tread depth, as this could compromise traction and handling, especially in wet conditions. The minor exhaust leak, which has been a recurring advisory, should be addressed to prevent further emissions-related issues and to avoid potential fire hazards. Inspect the exhaust system for any signs of rust or corrosion, particularly around the rear, where standing fluids and moisture can accelerate deterioration. The test drive should include acceleration and deceleration to listen for any unusual noises from the exhaust, such as hissing or rattling, which could indicate loose components or a more severe leak. For the brake system, check for corrosion on the rear brake discs and ensure the calipers are not binding, which can occur if the vehicle has been stationary for long periods without braking. Finally, verify that the vehicle’s service history includes regular fluid top-ups, particularly brake fluid, which can degrade over time even when not in use, and consider having the 12V battery tested for capacity, as prolonged inactivity can lead to reduced performance or failure.