2014 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · ML64 YGD

A persistent pattern of rear axle bush deterioration has emerged across multiple MOT cycles on this 2014 Ford Fiesta, with advisories recorded on every test since October 2023 noting perishing and slight wear on both the nearside and offside units. The most recent assessment on 15 October 2025 recorded a pass alongside the same axle bush advisory, suggesting the components are degrading slowly rather than being addressed through replacement. Electrical faults have also surfaced repeatedly, with the hazard warning switch and its associated tell-tale flagged as inoperative on three separate occasions across 2023, 2024, and 2025, alongside a headlamp positioning issue and a tyre pressure monitoring system malfunction. The recurrence of these electrical defects, particularly the hazard switch which has now failed inspection three years running, points to either an unresolved underlying wiring fault or components being replaced with non-standard parts. The 2025 test sequence is itself notable, with the vehicle presenting on 14 October with a non-functional hazard switch and a failed front position lamp before being retested the following day and passing once those defects were remedied. Against an approximate annual accumulation of 9,702 miles over a twelve-year lifespan, this Fiesta sits broadly in line with typical usage for its age, neither suspiciously low nor excessively high. The recorded mileage progression through the MOT history is consistent and shows no sudden jumps between tests, with readings documented in 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025 tracking upward in an orderly fashion. There are no extended gaps in testing that would indicate a prolonged period off the road, which removes the particular concerns around seized brakes, perished rubber seals, and stale fluids that can accompany long lay-ups. At 116,430 miles, mechanical wear on consumables such as clutch, suspension bushes, and brake components should be expected and largely aligns with the advisories the vehicle has accumulated. The braking system advisory noted in October 2023, flagging low front pads on both sides, has not reappeared in subsequent tests, which is consistent with pads having been replaced at that point. For a prospective buyer, the rear axle bushes warrant close physical and dynamic examination given their repeated advisories over three consecutive tests. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises emanating from the rear suspension over uneven surfaces, speed humps, and during sharp direction changes, as worn bushes typically produce audible impact sounds rather than squeaks. With the vehicle unladen, attempt to rock the rear axle laterally by hand if access permits, checking for any perceptible movement at the bush mounting points. The recurring electrical issues around the hazard switch merit a thorough functional check before purchase, confirming that the switch latches correctly in both directions, that the indicators operate in hazard mode, and that the dashboard tell-tale illuminates in time with operation. A scan for any warning messages relating to the tyre pressure monitoring system is also worthwhile, as the 2023 major defect for a malfunctioning TPMS suggests the system may require sensor replacement or recalibration. The front brake system should be inspected for pad material remaining, disc lipping on the outer edges, and any pulling or juddering under braking, particularly given the 2023 advisory. Finally, because the vehicle has covered substantial mileage, general checks for oil leaks around the engine and gearbox seals, coolant hoses for perishing, and exhaust condition for corrosion at the rear box mounting are prudent steps before committing to purchase.