2014 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · MJ14 FVE

A critical safety concern is the exposed ply on the off‑side front tyre together with an excessively worn ball‑joint on the same suspension arm, both recorded as dangerous and major failures in the MOT conducted on 10 September 2026. This recent failure follows a pattern of recurring issues: headlamp aim has been flagged as a major defect in both 2023 and 2025, exhaust carbon‑monoxide levels exceeded limits in 2025, and axle swivel pins and bushes have been repeatedly noted as slightly worn since 2023. While the car passed its 2024 and 2022 tests without recorded defects, the accumulation of serious faults in the latest test indicates a deterioration rather than an improvement in roadworthiness. At 85,664 miles the vehicle averages roughly 7,100 miles per year, which sits within a normal usage envelope for a 2014 model. The MOT history shows no prolonged gaps, suggesting the car has been driven consistently rather than sitting idle for extended periods. This mileage level places the suspension components, tyres and exhaust system well into the wear phase where ball‑joint fatigue, tyre degradation and exhaust catalyst efficiency commonly begin to decline, aligning with the defects observed. For a prospective buyer the immediate priority is the off‑side front tyre – it must be replaced before any further road use. The ball‑joint should be inspected for play and, given the “excessively worn” rating, replaced to avoid steering knock or loss of wheel alignment. During a test drive listen for clunking over bumps, feel for any looseness in the steering column, and check that the wheel tracks straight. The rear axle swivel pins and bushes, flagged as slightly worn, should be examined for excessive play or rattles; excessive movement may require bush replacement. Headlamp aim, recorded as too low on both sides in 2023 and too high on the near‑side in 2025, should be corrected to ensure proper illumination and avoid legal penalties. The exhaust system also demands attention: the previous carbon‑monoxide excess and the loose silencer flexi‑joint suggest possible leaks or catalyst wear. A thorough inspection for cracks, rattles, and abnormal exhaust smoke is advisable, and a functional emissions test should be confirmed before finalising the purchase. Although the MOT record shows no brake failures, a full brake inspection is prudent given the vehicle’s age and mileage. Overall, a comprehensive mechanical survey covering tyres, suspension, steering, axle bushings, lighting and exhaust will provide the necessary confidence in the car’s roadworthiness.