2004 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · MF04 HTC

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT test on 5 February 2026, but the resulting advisories show a clear pattern of progressive corrosion and component wear that warrants close attention. The 2024, 2025, and 2026 tests all carry advisories relating to corroded coil springs, beginning with both rear springs in 2024 and expanding to include the offside front coil spring in 2026. This gradual spread indicates that spring deterioration is advancing rather than static, and the rear axle was also flagged as corroded on the latest test. Earlier brake-related defects are notable too: a dangerous failure was recorded in February 2025 for front brake pads being less than 1.5 mm thick, alongside a significantly worn offside front brake disc, both of which were presumably rectified before the subsequent pass. The recurring brake pipe corrosion advisories from 2022 through 2024, particularly at the rear, also point to a chassis-level corrosion trend that buyers should monitor carefully. With a recorded mileage of 62,364 miles over approximately 22 years, this Ford Fiesta has covered an average of around 2,835 miles annually, which is substantially below typical usage for a vehicle of its age and suggests periods of either light running or extended standing. While low annual mileage reduces wear on high-mileage components such as the engine internals, clutch, and drivetrain, it introduces its own risks: standing use promotes brake disc surface corrosion, caliper seizure from infrequent actuation, deterioration of flexible brake hoses, oxidation of the exhaust system, and accelerated ageing of the 12V battery. The MOT history shows consistent year-on-year testing without obvious large mileage jumps, consistent with the low annual rate observed. Any extended periods of standing should be queried with the seller, and evidence of regular servicing to keep fluids and lubricants refreshed should be sought regardless of low odometer readings. On physical inspection, prospective buyers should pay particular attention to the front and rear coil springs, looking for surface pitting, flaking, or any loss of ride height which would indicate spring failure. The springs on a 22-year-old vehicle are well within the typical replacement window, and any knocking or clonking over bumps during a test drive would suggest the bushes or spring seats are worn. Brake pedal feel should be firm without excessive travel, and the vehicle should pull up straight without shudder through the steering wheel, which would indicate the recent brake disc and pad replacements have bedded in correctly. Inspect the underside closely for any bubbling or flaking around the rear axle, brake pipe unions, and the front sub-frame which was also flagged for corrosion in 2022, as corrosion in these areas can rapidly progress to structural concerns. Check that all brake pipes are secure, free from active corrosion, and not patched with excessive grease or tape, and verify there are no fluid leaks at the calipers or wheel cylinders. Given the vehicle's age, a thorough inspection should also cover items that may have degraded through calendar ageing rather than wear. Tyres should be examined for sidewall perishing and cracking even if tread depth appears adequate, as old rubber hardens and loses grip; the advisory history suggests both front and rear tyres have been replaced regularly, so confirm the current set is within five years of manufacture by checking the DOT date code. The 12V battery should be load-tested, as a 22-year-old vehicle is well beyond typical battery life, particularly if it has stood for long periods. All fluids including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and clutch hydraulic fluid should have been refreshed within their calendar-based service intervals regardless of mileage, and the service book or invoices should corroborate this. Finally, verify the operation of the horn and wiper system, as both were defective in early 2025, and ensure the timing belt or chain service interval has been observed, as these are critical age-related maintenance items that warrant confirmation before purchase.