2018 Ford Ecosport 1.0L Petrol · MX68 VDM

Recurrent minor failures regarding the windscreen washer system and a cluster of tyre-related advisories define the recent mechanical history of this vehicle, which successfully achieved a clean pass on 15 December 2025. While the vehicle has demonstrated a consistent ability to meet roadworthiness standards, the repeated failure for insufficient washer fluid indicates a lack of basic preparatory maintenance prior to testing in both 2022 and 2023. The absence of structural or drivetrain defects across the recorded history suggests that major mechanical components have not yet reached a point of failure, though the 2024 advisories regarding tyre condition highlight a period where the vehicle was operated with compromised rubber. Accumulating 26,771 miles over an eight-year lifespan results in a modest average of approximately 3,346 miles per annum. This low-usage profile often shifts the primary concern from high-mileage component wear to the effects of inactivity, such as potential seized brake calipers or surface corrosion on underbody components that are not exercised regularly. Given that the vehicle has been tested annually without significant gaps, it appears to have remained in active service rather than experiencing long-term storage, which typically mitigates the risks associated with fluid stagnation or seized mechanical linkages. Prospective buyers should prioritise a thorough inspection of the tyre sidewalls and tread patterns, specifically looking for the cracking or perishing noted in the 2024 test. Even if these tyres have been replaced, ensure the current set is matched and free of uneven wear, as the previous edge-wear advisories may point to underlying tracking or alignment issues that could cause premature degradation of new tyres. During the test drive, listen for any scrubbing noises or vibrations at motorway speeds that might suggest the alignment has not been corrected, and verify that the steering remains neutral without pulling to either side. Beyond the tyres, the windscreen washer system should be tested immediately to confirm that the pump is functioning correctly and that the jets are not obstructed by debris or calcium deposits, which were the cause of the previous test failures. While the MOT record shows no issues with the braking system or suspension components, use the test drive to check for any knocking or metallic clatter over uneven road surfaces, which could indicate early-stage wear in the anti-roll bar links or suspension bushes. Finally, check the windscreen for any chips or cracks that might have been missed during the most recent inspection, as the washer system failures suggest that visibility-related components have not always received the necessary attention.