2014 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · MT14 XSJ

Chronic front brake wear and a pattern of recurring electrical and tyre-related failures define the mechanical history of this 2014 Ford Fiesta. The most recent test on 13 March 2026 produced a pass with no advisories on the same date as a separate failure, which is unusual and suggests the defects were rectified after test; however, the failed entry recorded dangerous tread depths below 1.6mm on both front tyres, a non-functional offside rear stop lamp, and an insufficient washer supply. The stop lamp defect is notable because the previous test in February 2025 also failed on both near and offside stop lamps as a prs reason, indicating an intermittent electrical issue rather than a one-off bulb failure. Front brake disc wear has been flagged as an advisory at every recorded test since January 2022, with pitted, scored, and lipped conditions noted on both sides, suggesting the discs are at the end of their service life and will likely require replacement alongside pads at the next service. With 89,341 miles recorded over twelve years, the annual accumulation of roughly 7,445 miles is broadly typical for its age and indicates regular use rather than long periods of standing. Testing has been conducted annually without significant gaps, which suggests the vehicle has remained in continuous road use and has not suffered the corrosion or seal deterioration that often affects laid-up cars. The mileage progression between tests is consistent with steady commuting or mixed-purpose driving, and there is no evidence of rapid accumulation that would point to high-stress use such as frequent towing or motorway mileage. At this mileage, consumable wear on suspension bushes, brake components, and drivetrain mounts should be expected, and the recorded advisories align with that expectation. The recurring front brake disc advisories deserve close inspection during a viewing. On a test drive, listen for any grinding or squealing from the front calipers on light braking, and feel for vibration or judder through the steering wheel under firm pedal pressure, which would indicate disc run-out or lipping severe enough to require replacement. Inspect the discs visually for a pronounced outer lip and check that the brake pedal feels firm without sponginess, as the front discs have been progressively wearing across multiple tests. Under the vehicle, look for surface corrosion on the discs and any scoring visible around the friction surface, as pitted discs on a Fiesta of this mileage are often approaching minimum thickness. Suspension and undercarriage components flagged at earlier tests warrant specific attention. The 2025 test recorded an advisory on the nearside rear subframe pin or bush showing wear, and the 2023 test noted a splitting gearbox dog link bush, light oil misting on the nearside rear shock absorber, and splitting rear axle swivel pin bushes. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the rear over speed humps and uneven road surfaces, and pay particular attention to any vague or wandering behaviour from the rear end during direction changes, which would indicate that the worn bushes have progressed to excessive movement. Check the rear shock absorbers for damp patches or oily residue on the body, and inspect the gearbox mount area for any visible cracking or separation of the dog link bush. The 2024 advisory on slight play in the offside front suspension arm ball joint should also be checked by rocking each front wheel at the top and bottom to detect any discernible play or knocking transmitted into the suspension.