2014 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Petrol · MV64 GAU

A pattern of progressive wear and corrosion across the suspension and braking systems dominates this Fiesta’s MOT history, with the most recent test on 24 November 2025 recording only advisory items despite earlier dangerous failures. The 2025 pass noted deteriorated front registration plates, a cut on the off‑side front inner tyre, near‑side front tyre close to the legal limit, and corrosion on both rear coil springs, while the 2024 test added advisories for front brake disc surface condition. Earlier serious defects—off‑side rear brake pads under 1.5 mm, a heavily worn near‑side front lower suspension arm, and rear brake imbalance in 2020, plus an exhaust lambda out‑of‑spec reading in 2022—show that the vehicle has required substantive remedial work in the past, though recent results suggest no current failures. At 148 714 miles the car averages roughly 12 400 miles per year, a mileage rate well above the typical UK average for a 12‑year‑old hatchback. Annual testing has been continuous with no gaps, indicating the vehicle has been driven regularly rather than stored for long periods. Such high cumulative mileage accelerates consumable wear, particularly on tyres, brake pads/discs, suspension bushings, and coil springs, and it increases the likelihood of latent corrosion in sub‑frame areas that can manifest as handling changes or noise under load. When inspecting the suspension, focus on the rear coil springs that have been flagged as corroded for two consecutive years and the front track‑rod end that showed slight play in 2023. Listen for clunking or knocking over bumps, feel for any looseness or wandering under steering input, and check for uneven tyre wear that could indicate mis‑alignment. The previously worn lower suspension arm ball joint and current track‑rod play may also produce a vague steering shimmy at higher speeds; any such symptoms should be investigated by a competent technician before committing to purchase. Brake assessment should centre on the rear system, where pads were deemed dangerous in 2020 and both front discs were noted as pitted in 2024. Verify pad thickness visually or with a gauge, and test for pedal pulsation, squealing, or reduced braking efficiency during a road test. The earlier rear brake imbalance may still be present if the calipers or pistons have uneven wear, so watch for a pull to one side when applying the brakes. Tyre condition is another immediate concern: the near‑side front tyre was close to the legal limit in 2023 and the off‑side front tyre bears a cut; both should be measured for tread depth and sidewall integrity, and any tyre approaching the minimum legal tread should be replaced. Finally, the 2022 lambda sensor failure suggests the exhaust emissions system may have been compromised; a pre‑purchase emissions test and a visual inspection for exhaust leaks or faulty O₂ sensor wiring are advisable to avoid unexpected repair costs.