2010 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · MK60 CHC

A persistent theme across the MOT record is the recurring condition of the rear seat‑belt webbing and the rear tyres, combined with a series of front‑tyre and suspension concerns that have escalated to a dangerous tyre bulge in September 2026 before being rectified. Earlier tests also flagged a severely worn front suspension arm ball joint in 2024 and a major exhaust leak together with non‑functioning stop lamps in 2022, indicating that safety‑critical components have required attention on several occasions. The latest pass on 14 September 2026 shows only advisory notes, suggesting that the most serious defects have been addressed, but the pattern of repeated advisories points to ongoing wear that may re‑appear if not proactively managed. With 80,608 mi recorded over roughly sixteen years the average annual mileage is just over 5,000 mi, well below the typical usage for a super‑mini of this age. Low utilisation can be a sign of intermittent or limited use, which often leads to ageing of rubber components such as tyres and seat‑belt webbing even when mileage is modest. The MOT history shows no long gaps between tests, but the dual entries on 15 March 2022 (a failure and a subsequent pass) indicate that major repairs were carried out after a failed inspection. Mechanically, the low mileage reduces cumulative wear on engine and drivetrain parts, yet the tyre and belt wear recorded suggests that the vehicle may have spent periods stationary, allowing cracking and perishing to develop. Prospective buyers should inspect the rear seat‑belt webbing for any fraying or loss of integrity and be prepared to replace both belts if the damage is beyond cosmetic wear. The rear tyres are flagged as slightly damaged or cracking; a visual check for tread cracks, sidewall bulges and uneven wear is essential, and replacement is advisable if any perishing is evident. The front outer tyre that prompted a dangerous failure in September 2026 must be examined for bulging or separation, and the front tyres that were noted as close to the legal limit should be measured for tread depth and uniformity. The front suspension arm ball joint, recorded as excessively worn in 2024, should be probed for play by applying downward pressure on the wheel at the 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock positions; any clunk or looseness warrants immediate replacement. During a test drive, listen for knocking or clunking over bumps that would confirm lingering suspension ball‑joint wear, and feel for any steering pull or vibration that could indicate tyre distortion. Apply the brakes firmly to detect any pulsation or judder that might stem from the pitted front brake discs, and verify that all exterior lights – especially the stop lamps and headlamps – illuminate correctly and are correctly aimed. Finally, listen for any exhaust hissing or rattling that could signal a recurrence of the rear‑box leak previously recorded. A thorough mechanical inspection focused on the tyres, suspension, braking system, seat‑belt integrity and exhaust will give a realistic picture of the car’s roadworthiness before committing to purchase.