2012 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · MM12 CZP

The most recent MOT inspection on 27 November 2025 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance trend indicates a period of significant neglect followed by a recent attempt at rectification. The failure in late 2024 for dangerous braking components and critically worn tyres suggests a lapse in basic preventative maintenance. While the 2025 pass shows that the most severe safety issues were addressed, the recurring advisories for suspension and tyre wear indicate that the vehicle is entering a phase of progressive mechanical degradation. The maintenance profile is currently unstable, as several components are nearing the end of their serviceable life and will require imminent attention to maintain roadworthiness. With 104,205 miles recorded over approximately 14 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 7,443 miles per year. This is considered low to moderate annual mileage for a Ford Fiesta of this age, suggesting it has likely been used for short-distance commuting or local trips rather than heavy motorway use. While lower mileage generally implies less wear on the engine and drivetrain, it can often lead to other issues such as carbon buildup or the degradation of rubber components due to lack of regular, sustained heat cycles. In this specific case, the mileage is consistent with the observed wear on suspension bushes and shock absorbers, which are prone to perishing and fatigue even when total distance travelled is not excessive. A prospective buyer must be particularly cautious regarding the recurring suspension and damping advisories. The light misting of oil on both rear shock absorbers suggests the internal seals are beginning to fail; you should listen for a knocking or thudding sound when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, which indicates the dampers are no longer controlling spring oscillation effectively. Furthermore, the advisories for play in the front anti-roll bar linkage ball joints and wear in the offside front lower suspension arm bush are critical. During a test drive, listen for rhythmic clunking or metallic knocking from the front end, especially when turning the steering wheel or navigating rough roads. If these bushes or joints fail completely, it will negatively impact steering precision and cause rapid, uneven tyre wear. Regarding the braking and tyre systems, the history of dangerous failures for brake pads, discs, and tread depth necessitates a very thorough physical inspection. Check the current tread depth on all four tyres and inspect the sidewalls for any signs of perishing or cracking, which is common in vehicles with this mileage profile. Examine the brake discs for deep scoring or heavy corrosion, and during the test drive, feel for any pedal pulsation or steering wheel shudder, which would indicate warped or unevenly worn discs. Given the history of worn edges on the offside rear tyre, you should also verify that the wheel alignment is correct, as persistent uneven wear often points to incorrect camber or toe settings resulting from the aforementioned suspension wear.