2014 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · LS14 VOF

The most recent MOT, carried out on 26 August 2026, resulted in a failure with several major defects, notably a non‑functioning nearside front headlamp, excessive wear on the nearside front suspension arm ball joint and a fluctuating front service brake. Earlier in the year the car passed its MOT, but the pattern over the past three years shows alternating passes and failures, with serious suspension and lighting faults recurring. This indicates a maintenance trend that is currently deteriorating rather than stabilising, and the vehicle will require immediate remedial work to regain roadworthiness. At twelve years old the Fiesta has logged 81 473 miles, averaging roughly 6 800 miles per annum – a usage rate that sits comfortably within the normal range for a vehicle of its age. The mileage does not suggest extreme abuse, but it also does not rule out periods of prolonged inactivity, which can exacerbate corrosion of suspension components and battery degradation. The cumulative distance will have contributed to normal wear of the steering and suspension joints, brake discs and pads, and tyre tread, all of which are reflected in the MOT findings. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front suspension assembly. The nearside front arm ball joint and the off‑side lower arm ball joint have both been flagged as excessively worn, and the nearside track‑rod end showed excessive play previously; these parts are critical to steering geometry and can produce clunking noises, vague steering feel or uneven tyre wear if they are near the end of their service life. An inspection should confirm the condition of all ball joints, bushings and swivel pins, looking for any looseness when the wheel is rocked and for any leaking grease. The rear axle swivel pins and bushes, noted as slightly worn, should also be checked for play and corrosion, as they can affect rear wheel alignment and handling. The front headlamp must be tested for both dipped and main beam operation, and the washer pump and nozzle system should be exercised to verify proper spray and fluid delivery. The off‑side stop lamp’s failure points to possible wiring or bulb issues that should be rectified. Tyre tread depth must be measured on all four wheels; the off‑side front tyre was recorded as dangerously low in 2025 and the nearside front tyre was already close to the legal limit in 2023, so replacement of at least the front set is likely required. During a test drive listen for any suspension clunks over bumps, feel for wandering or loose steering, and note any brake pedal pulsation or shudder that could indicate warped discs or uneven pad wear. Given the vehicle’s age, additional time‑based checks are advisable even if the mileage is moderate. Inspect the battery for sulphation and verify that it holds charge, especially if the car has spent long periods stationary. Examine the brake fluid for moisture content and consider a flush if it has not been serviced in the last two years. Look for corrosion on the rear coil springs, which have been flagged as corroded at the bottom; severe rust can compromise spring integrity and lead to a harsh ride or premature failure. Verify that the coolant, engine oil and transmission fluid have been changed at appropriate intervals, and confirm that the service book contains recent stamps for major services such as timing belt/chain replacement if applicable. Overall, the Fiesta will need a thorough mechanical inspection and likely a suite of suspension, lighting and tyre replacements before it can be considered a reliable purchase.