2004 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · NG04 TPZ

The 2004 Ford Fiesta passed its most recent MOT on 5 March 2026 at 106,477 miles, but the maintenance trend is not straightforward. The day before, on 4 March 2026 at 106,418 miles, the car failed with serious fluid leaks on both rear shock absorbers and slightly worn rear axle swivel pins and bushes. The very next day it passed, which strongly suggests a same-day repair rather than a coincidental resolution. That rapid turnaround points to active remedial work, yet the underlying pattern across earlier years is one of recurring corrosion and structural concerns rather than consistent preventative upkeep. The mileage profile is low for a 22-year-old vehicle, averaging roughly 4,840 miles per year. Between the March 2025 test at 102,605 miles and the March 2026 test at 106,477 miles, the car covered approximately 3,872 miles in twelve months, which is consistent with light use. However, the jump from 94,031 miles in March 2024 to 102,571 miles in March 2025 represents 8,540 miles in a single year, a notable spike that suggests either a change in ownership or a shift from long-term storage to regular driving. The record is otherwise continuous with no major gaps, but the low annual mileage overall raises the possibility of extended periods standing still, which can accelerate brake pipe corrosion and suspension component deterioration due to lack of use. Corrosion is the dominant theme in this vehicle's history. Brake pipes were flagged as corroded and contaminated with grease or other material in both the March 2024 and March 2025 tests, affecting both front and rear circuits. In the March 2025 failure, the nearside rear suspension mounting prescribed area on the sill was excessively corroded with significantly reduced structural strength, a serious defect that required repair before the car could pass later that same day. Any prospective buyer should have the sill and rear suspension mounting points inspected thoroughly for hidden corrosion or cosmetic repairs masking structural weakness. The rear suspension has been a persistent weak point. The March 2026 failure identified serious fluid leaks on both rear shock absorbers, accompanied by worn rear axle swivel pins and bushes. A prospective buyer should have the rear suspension inspected on a ramp, paying close attention to shock absorber condition, bush wear, and any signs of fresh replacement parts that may indicate a short-term fix rather than a lasting repair. The brake lines, particularly at the rear, deserve close scrutiny given the repeated corrosion advisories. A full inspection of all flexible and rigid brake pipe runs, including areas where grease or underseal may be concealing deterioration, is essential before purchase.