2011 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · LS11 HDV

The most recent DVSA examination dated 8 May 2026 recorded a PASS, but it is important to recognise that this pass was achieved only on the same day as a FAIL, with both entries carrying the same mileage and identical advisory items. The advisories at the most recent test include a slightly distorted nearside rear road wheel, three tyres worn close to the legal limit or worn on the edge, and a light misting of oil on the nearside rear shock absorber. The 2025 test followed a similar pattern, with a FAIL caused by dangerous tyres with exposed ply or cords, an exhaust leak, and inoperative rear lighting, before passing the same visit after rectification. Earlier years also show failure points on a nearside front tyre bulge, a track rod end with excessive play, an insecure bonnet, and front position lamp failures. Taken as a whole, the maintenance trend is best described as reactive rather than worsening, with the vehicle consistently failing on first presentation each year before being repaired and re-presented. This pattern suggests that significant defects are being allowed to develop between tests, which is a concern for a prospective buyer. With 190,239 recorded miles over approximately 15 years, this Fiesta has averaged around 12,683 miles per year, which is at the upper end of typical usage and well above average for its age. The mileage progression between tests appears broadly consistent with no obvious gaps, indicating a vehicle that has been in regular daily use rather than one that has spent long periods standing. High annual mileage of this nature accelerates wear on suspension components, braking systems, clutch and gearbox internals, engine mounts, and drivetrain bearings, and it is consistent with the recurring advisories and failures seen in the MOT record. The recurring nearside rear shock absorber oil misting has now appeared across the 2022, 2023, 2025, and 2026 tests, indicating a progressive failure of the unit rather than a one-off observation. Light misting can develop into a more substantial leak that compromises damping, leading to reduced wheel control, extended stopping distances, and uneven tyre wear particularly on the affected side. On a test drive, this would typically present as a clonking or knocking noise from the rear over bumps, excessive bouncing after compression, or a noticeably unsettled ride. Replacement of the rear shock absorber is a sensible precaution, and the corresponding rear tyres should be inspected for uneven inner or outer wear that may indicate worn dampers. The persistent nearside rear road wheel distortion advisory is also worth noting, as a distorted wheel can cause vibration through the steering, uneven tyre wear, and potential loss of tyre bead sealing; the wheel should be inspected carefully and replaced if the distortion is visible or measurable. Beyond the documented advisories, a vehicle of this age and mileage warrants thorough physical inspection regardless of a current pass. The brake discs and calipers should be examined for corrosion, pitting, and binding, particularly given the regular short-trip mileage profile that tends to promote disc surface corrosion; a test drive should confirm smooth, vibration-free braking without pulling to either side. The clutch should be assessed for slipping under load, particularly in higher gears, and the gearbox for any synchro wear or selector vagueness. The cambelt or timing chain interval should be verified against Ford's recommended schedule, and the service book should be scrutinised for evidence that annual fluid changes, including brake fluid (typically every two years due to hygroscopic degradation), coolant, and gearbox oil, have been carried out on a calendar basis rather than purely by mileage. The exhaust system, having recently had a major leak rectified, should be inspected for blowing joints, corroded mounting rubbers, and heat shield security. Finally, the 12V battery health should be checked, the bodywork examined for corrosion around the wheel arches, sills, and rear lower panels which are common Ford Fiesta weak points, and the underside inspected for oil leaks from the engine and gearbox seals. Given the recurring pattern of first-presentation failures, any prospective purchase should ideally be accompanied by an independent pre-purchase inspection.