2010 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · ML60 BOO

The most recent MOT test on the 2010 Ford Fiesta, conducted on 2026-01-22, resulted in a failure, with several major defects identified, including serious fluid leaks in the nearside front shock absorbers, excessive wear in both nearside and offside rear axle swivel pins and bushes, and severe deterioration of the nearside front suspension arm ball joint dust cover. This outcome contrasts with the previous MOTs, where only minor or advisory issues were noted, suggesting a deterioration in the vehicle’s structural and suspension integrity over time. The recurring presence of corrosion in the rear coil springs and trailing arm bushes, alongside the persistent play in the steering rack inner joints, indicates a pattern of wear that may be accelerating, particularly in the suspension and axle assembly. While the 2024 tests showed light misting in the nearside front shock absorbers and minor brake binding, the 2026 failure underscores a critical need for immediate attention to prevent further mechanical failure, which could compromise road safety. The recorded mileage of 71,925 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 16 years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of around 4,495 miles per year, which is notably below the average for its age. Such low mileage can sometimes reflect periods of prolonged inactivity, during which components like brakes, suspension bushes, and seals may degrade more rapidly due to standing corrosion or fluid stagnation. However, the absence of higher mileage accumulation suggests that the vehicle has not undergone intensive or aggressive driving conditions, which might otherwise accelerate wear on consumables such as brake pads, tyres, and engine components. Nevertheless, the discrepancy between its age and mileage warrants caution, as standing vehicles are particularly susceptible to issues like brake disc corrosion, caliper binding, and fluid degradation over time. Given the MOT history, the buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension and axle assembly, focusing on the following critical areas: the nearside and offside rear axle swivel pins and bushes, which show excessive wear and require immediate replacement to prevent premature failure of the differential or drivetrain components; the nearside front shock absorbers, which have a confirmed fluid leak and should be replaced to restore damping effectiveness and prevent suspension collapse; and the nearside front suspension arm ball joint dust cover, which is severely deteriorated, indicating potential contamination of the ball joint bearing. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunks or rattles in the front and rear suspension, particularly when transitioning between rough and smooth road surfaces, as this may indicate loose or worn suspension components. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which could suggest misalignment or suspension imbalance, and inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, as the vehicle’s age and potential standing periods may have contributed to this issue. The brake system should also be examined for signs of corrosion on discs and binding calipers, especially on the nearside rear, where the MOT noted service brake binding but not excessive wear. For fluid and general maintenance, the buyer should verify the condition of all hydraulic fluids, including the brake fluid, which should be checked for contamination or moisture ingress, as standing vehicles are prone to fluid degradation. The 12-volt battery should be tested for capacity and clean terminals, as prolonged disuse can lead to sulphation or corrosion. The exhaust emissions system should be inspected for leaks or corrosion, particularly around the catalytic converter and manifold, as corrosion can restrict airflow and affect performance. Finally, the service history should be reviewed to confirm that routine maintenance, such as oil changes and timing belt replacement (if applicable), has been conducted according to Ford’s recommended intervals. Given the vehicle’s age and the advisories of corrosion in the coil springs and trailing arm bushes, it is advisable to address these issues promptly to avoid further structural damage or reduced roadworthiness.