2015 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · NJ65 TZT

The most recent MOT test on the 2015 Ford Fiesta recorded a failure with both front suspension arm ball joints classified as major defects, indicating severe wear beyond the legal advisory threshold. This outcome follows a pattern of recurring advisories related to front tyre wear close to legal limits and minor ball joint play in the track rod ends, suggesting a gradual but persistent issue with suspension component degradation. While previous MOTs show a mix of passed and failed tests, the progression from slight wear to outright failure in the ball joints highlights a concerning trend of increasing mechanical wear, particularly in the front suspension assembly. The vehicle’s history does not indicate sudden deterioration, but the consistent presence of advisories on tyre edge wear and suspension component wear points to either under-maintained suspension or high-stress driving conditions that accelerate component failure. The recorded mileage of 73,819 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 11 years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of around 6,711 miles per annum, which is typical for a car of this age and class. Such mileage suggests moderate to heavy use, though not necessarily excessive, as lower mileage could reflect periods of inactivity or lighter usage. For a suspension system operating under this level of mileage, the wear observed in the ball joints and track rod ends is not entirely unexpected, as these components experience cyclic loading from road irregularities and cornering. However, the severity of the latest failure—where ball joints are deemed excessively worn—implies that the vehicle has either been driven under demanding conditions or has not received timely servicing to address early signs of wear. The tyre edge wear advisories further support this, as consistent cornering or misalignment can exacerbate uneven tread wear. For the prospective buyer, the most critical immediate inspection should focus on the front suspension components, particularly the ball joints and track rod ends, as their failure history indicates a high risk of further mechanical failure if not addressed. On a test drive, listen for clunking noises from the front suspension, especially during cornering or over bumps, which may indicate loose or worn ball joints. Inspect the front tyres for uneven wear patterns, as the edge wear advisories suggest potential misalignment or suspension issues. The front suspension arms should be visually checked for signs of corrosion or damage, and any play in the ball joints should be confirmed by a professional inspection. Given the severity of the latest failure, the buyer should prioritise replacing the front suspension ball joints and track rod ends as soon as possible, ideally within the next 10,000 to 15,000 miles to prevent further suspension failure, which could lead to steering instability or vehicle control issues. Beyond suspension, the tyre tread depth should be verified to ensure it remains above the legal minimum, as the recurring advisories on edge wear could indicate ongoing alignment or suspension problems. Check for sidewall cracking or perishing, which is more common in older vehicles and can compromise tyre integrity over time. The brake system should be inspected for signs of excessive heat discolouration on discs or binding calipers, particularly on the front brakes where the suspension issues are most prominent. The vehicle’s 12V battery should be tested for health, as prolonged inactivity or high electrical demand from accessories can lead to degradation, especially in a car of this age. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and usage profile, the oil and coolant should be checked for contamination or degradation, as these fluids can break down over time even with regular servicing. If the buyer opts to proceed, a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is strongly advised to assess the extent of suspension damage and recommend any necessary repairs before purchase.