2020 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · LS70 WWC

The 2020 Ford Fiesta’s latest DVSA MOT test on 2025-09-15 resulted in a pass, with a single advisory regarding the offside rear shock absorber exhibiting light oil misting. This follows a similar advisory in the previous year’s test for the nearside rear shock absorber, indicating a consistent but stable maintenance trend. The absence of any failures or more severe advisories suggests that while the suspension components are showing signs of wear, they are not yet critical to roadworthiness. The vehicle’s MOT history remains clean for three consecutive years, reinforcing that the owner has likely maintained a proactive approach to routine checks, though the recurring shock absorber advisories warrant closer attention to prevent potential long-term degradation of the suspension geometry or component integrity. The recorded mileage of 7,332 miles for a vehicle aged six years represents an annual usage rate of approximately 1,222 miles, which is notably lower than the industry average for a car of this age. Such low mileage can stem from infrequent use, long periods of stationary storage, or a preference for alternative transportation methods. However, this usage profile does not inherently guarantee better mechanical condition—components such as brakes, tyres, and suspension can still degrade due to prolonged inactivity, particularly if the vehicle has been left exposed to environmental factors like moisture, salt, or temperature fluctuations. The lack of significant mileage accumulation means wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and fluids may be less pronounced than in higher-mileage counterparts, but this does not absolve the need for thorough inspection, especially for items prone to calendar-based deterioration. Given the recurring oil misting advisories on the rear shock absorbers, the prospective buyer should conduct a meticulous inspection of the suspension system. Visually check for any signs of excessive oil leakage from the shock absorber bodies or bushings, and listen for unusual noises during a test drive—specifically, harsh clunking or rattling when the vehicle is driven over bumps or when cornering. The misting of oil suggests internal wear, which could lead to reduced damping performance and potential failure if not addressed. Impending maintenance should include replacing the affected shock absorbers, ideally before they reach a point where they compromise handling stability or contribute to uneven tyre wear. Additionally, the buyer should verify the condition of the suspension bushes and coil springs, as these can also degrade over time, leading to binding or excessive play in the steering or body movement. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, particularly one with extended periods of stationary use, the buyer should prioritise a comprehensive physical inspection of several critical components. First, examine the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even at low mileage due to prolonged exposure to UV light and temperature cycling. Check the tread depth and look for irregular wear patterns that may indicate misalignment or suspension issues. The brake system should be inspected for corrosion on discs and linings, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, as standing fluid can accelerate rusting. Test the brake pedal for firmness and ensure there is no binding when applying pressure, which could signal worn pads or binding calipers. Furthermore, the 12V battery should be checked for signs of corrosion on terminals and tested for charge retention, as prolonged inactivity can lead to battery failure. Finally, given the low mileage, the fluid levels—particularly the engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid—should be topped up to manufacturer specifications, and a service history review should confirm that time-based fluid changes have been conducted according to Ford’s maintenance schedule. If the vehicle has been stored in a damp or poorly ventilated environment, it may also benefit from a thorough inspection of the fuel system, as moisture ingress can cause carburetor or fuel injection issues.