2010 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · LS10 VSO

The most recent MOT, conducted on 21 May 2026, was passed with a minor defect (off‑side registration plate lamp inoperative) and several advisories covering the rear sub‑frame bush, inner‑edge tyre wear on both front and rear nearside tyres and a noisy steering column. Over the last six years the vehicle has shown a consistent pattern of recurring advisories – chiefly the steering column noise, sub‑frame bush wear and tyre‑wear warnings – but no repeat failures since the 2021 front position lamp defect was rectified. This indicates a maintenance trend that is broadly stable; the car is being kept road‑legal, yet the same wear points are persisting and will need attention before they develop into major faults. At 126 446 mi the Fiesta averages roughly 7 900 mi per annum, which is typical for a sixteen‑year‑old small car. The mileage record does not reveal any long periods of inactivity that would suggest severe perishing of rubber components, nor any sudden spikes that would point to intensive short‑term use. Consequently the wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension components is likely to be proportional to age rather than excessive mileage, but the cumulative distance does mean that many wear items will be approaching the end of their service life. When you inspect the vehicle, give particular focus to the steering column – a noisy column often signals deteriorating bearings or worn bushings, which can produce a clunk when the wheel is turned or the steering is released. Test the steering for any play and listen for rattles at low speed and under hard cornering. The rear sub‑frame pin or bush, flagged in each MOT, should be checked for excessive movement or corrosion; excessive flex can lead to chassis squeaks and affect handling. Verify the condition of the nearside front and rear tyres, looking for the inner‑edge wear noted in the advisories; such wear is commonly caused by incorrect camber or worn suspension bushes and may be accompanied by a pulling sensation to one side during a straight‑line drive. Replace the off‑side registration plate lamp and inspect the wiring harness for any signs of corrosion, as a missing lamp is a legal requirement. The rear seat‑belt webbing shows slight fraying and should be examined for any delamination; a compromised belt must be replaced promptly for safety. Beyond the recorded items, a sixteen‑year‑old car benefits from a thorough age‑related inspection. Examine all tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or perishing, especially the off‑side rear tyre noted as slightly damaged in 2020, and replace any tyre that shows age‑related deterioration even if tread depth appears adequate. Check the 12 V battery for electrolyte level, terminal corrosion and conduct a load test, as batteries over ten years often lose capacity. Inspect the brake discs and pads for surface rust, glazing or uneven wear, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding – standing periods can cause pistons to seize. Finally, confirm that the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed within the recommended intervals; fluid degradation with age can lead to reduced lubrication, overheating and corrosion of internal components. A full service history and a test drive that reveals smooth acceleration, quiet operation and no unusual vibrations will give you confidence that the Fiesta remains mechanically sound for further use.