2012 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · NR06 CAM

Recurring suspension and structural component wear characterises the mechanical history of this Ford Fiesta, which has demonstrated a pattern of repeated failures followed by corrective repairs over the last four years. While the vehicle successfully passed its most recent MOT on 5 December 2025, the record shows a consistent trend of component degradation, particularly regarding the rear axle bushes and front suspension geometry. The transition from minor defects to major failures in areas such as shock absorber integrity and axle bush wear suggests that the vehicle requires vigilant monitoring of its undercarriage to prevent the return of previously identified safety-critical issues. Accumulating 126,266 miles over fourteen years results in an average of approximately 9,019 miles per annum, a figure consistent with standard usage for a vehicle of this age. This consistent annual mileage indicates that the car has remained in regular operation rather than experiencing prolonged periods of inactivity, which typically mitigates the risk of seized mechanical components or perished rubber seals associated with long-term storage. However, the cumulative stress of this mileage is clearly reflected in the MOT history, where high-wear items like suspension linkages and shock absorbers have reached the end of their service life and necessitated replacement. Prospective buyers should prioritise a thorough inspection of the rear suspension assembly, specifically the axle bushes, which were flagged as excessively worn in late 2024. During a test drive, listen for any metallic knocking or clunking sounds emanating from the rear of the vehicle when travelling over uneven surfaces or speed humps, as these are primary indicators of bush failure. Furthermore, given the previous failure regarding a leaking front shock absorber, ensure the vehicle remains stable during cornering and does not exhibit excessive body roll or bounce after traversing bumps, which would suggest that the dampers are losing their hydraulic effectiveness. The history of oil leaks and suspension arm ball joint dust cover deterioration necessitates a visual check of the engine bay and the underside of the chassis. Inspect the area around the engine block for signs of fresh oil seepage and check the steering and suspension joints for any signs of grease leakage or split rubber gaiters, as these can lead to premature joint failure if left unaddressed. Finally, verify the condition of the tyres, as the most recent testing cycle included a dangerous failure due to insufficient tread depth, confirming that the current tyre set should be inspected for even wear across the contact patch to ensure the steering geometry remains correctly aligned.