2023 Ford Puma ST 1.5L Petrol · LS73 KFV

The most recent DVSA MOT test for the 2023 Ford Puma ST was conducted on 2026-03-03, resulting in a failure. The vehicle did not pass due to a major defect—the nearside front tyre exhibited a cut exceeding legal requirements, reaching the ply or cords, which is a critical failure under clause 5.2.3(d)(i) and necessitates immediate replacement. While the test also recorded minor and advisory defects, the major failure dominates the assessment, indicating a critical roadworthiness issue that must be addressed before the vehicle can be legally driven. The absence of subsequent MOT tests up to the present date suggests either that the owner has not yet rectified the tyre failure or that the vehicle has not been tested since the failure, which raises concerns about ongoing compliance and potential further deterioration. Without further MOT records, it is impossible to determine whether this failure is an isolated incident or part of a broader maintenance trend, but the presence of multiple advisories—particularly around tyre wear and edge damage—suggests underlying wear patterns that may have contributed to the major defect. The recorded mileage of 14,673 miles for a vehicle that is approximately three years old represents a relatively low annual usage rate of around 4,891 miles per year. This is notably lower than the industry average for a three-year-old car, which typically accumulates between 10,000 and 15,000 miles annually. Such low mileage can result from lighter usage, long periods of the vehicle being stationary, or deliberate underutilisation. However, low mileage does not inherently guarantee mechanical soundness, as prolonged idling or infrequent movement can accelerate wear in specific areas, particularly in the braking system, suspension components, and fluid degradation. For example, standing brakes can lead to corrosion on brake discs and calipers, while fluids like brake fluid and differential oil can degrade over time due to evaporation or contamination, even if the vehicle is not driven frequently. Additionally, tyre wear patterns may not reflect actual usage if the vehicle has been parked for extended periods, potentially masking underlying issues such as misalignment or suspension wear that would otherwise be evident with higher mileage. Given the recent MOT failure and the critical nature of the tyre defect, the prospective buyer must prioritise addressing the major failure before proceeding with any purchase. The nearside front tyre cut reaching the ply or cords is a severe condition that requires immediate replacement, as continuing to drive with such a defect poses a significant risk of sudden failure, loss of control, or catastrophic blowout. The advisories regarding tyre wear close to legal limits on both the near and offside front tyres and the slight damage to the nearside rear outer tyre further indicate that the tyres are approaching or have exceeded their serviceable life. During a test drive, the buyer should listen for unusual noises from the front wheels, such as a grinding or scraping sound, which could indicate worn or damaged brake components or alignment issues. They should also check for uneven tyre wear, which may suggest misalignment, suspension problems, or incorrect tyre pressures. Additionally, the buyer should inspect the vehicle for any signs of fluid leaks around the wheel arches, particularly under the front tyres, as this could indicate a failing wheel bearing or suspension component. For the 2023 Ford Puma ST, given its low recorded mileage and the recent MOT history, the buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection to identify any hidden issues that may have arisen from prolonged stationary use or infrequent driving. This includes checking the brake system for signs of corrosion on the discs and calipers, particularly if the vehicle has been parked for extended periods, as standing brakes can accelerate rust formation. The brake fluid reservoir should be inspected for contamination or moisture buildup, which can lead to brake failure if not addressed. The suspension components, including coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes, should be examined for signs of wear or damage, such as excessive play or clunking noises when driving over bumps, which may indicate worn or failed suspension elements. The battery should be tested for health, as low mileage can sometimes lead to battery degradation from prolonged disuse, and the buyer should verify that the service book or maintenance records confirm that time-based servicing, such as oil changes and fluid top-ups, has been completed according to Ford’s recommended intervals. Finally, the buyer should inspect the vehicle’s exterior for any signs of rust, particularly around the undercarriage, wheel arches, and wheel wells, as standing can accelerate corrosion in these areas. If the vehicle has been driven regularly, the buyer should also verify that the tyre sidewall and tread have been checked for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise tyre integrity even if the tread depth is within legal limits.