2015 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · OP14 ELL

The most recent MOT record from May 2026 at 90,437 miles reveals a vehicle in a critical state of disrepair, with repeated failures and advisories pointing to chronic neglect. The May 2026 test initially passed but was immediately failed on the same day due to multiple serious faults, including a defective offside rear fog lamp, a leaking exhaust system, and a binding track rod end ball joint—all of which directly compromise structural integrity and emissions compliance. The TPM light was also active, indicating tyres were at or beyond legal limits, with all four exhibiting uneven wear and cracking, suggesting the car has been driven despite clear signs of unsafe tread condition. This pattern of recurring, unresolved issues—particularly the exhaust leak and suspension wear—demonstrates a worsening trend rather than isolated oversights, raising significant concerns about the vehicle’s long-term reliability and road safety. The mileage accumulation of roughly 8,200 miles per year aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age, but the MOT history reveals a troubling lack of proactive maintenance. Between May 2024 and May 2026, the car covered 19,753 miles in just two years, yet the only clean MOT was in 2024 at 70,684 miles, with no defects recorded. This suggests either deferred repairs or a history of passing tests only when minimal checks were performed. The rapid reappearance of faults—such as the rear suspension arm bush wear in May 2025 and the track rod joint failure in May 2026—implies these components were either ignored or poorly repaired, accelerating wear on critical steering and handling systems. For any prospective buyer, the most urgent areas to inspect in person are the suspension components, particularly the rear trailing arms and track rod end ball joints, which have shown progressive deterioration. The exhaust system must be thoroughly checked for leaks, as this not only affects emissions but could pose a fire risk from hot gases escaping. Tyres should be measured for tread depth and examined for cracking or uneven wear, as all four were flagged in recent tests. The rear door and wing damage, while cosmetic, may indicate underlying structural issues if corrosion or misalignment is present. Finally, the TPM light should be reset and tyres rechecked, as the vehicle was driven with near-legal tread depths—a clear sign of basic upkeep being overlooked. Without immediate and comprehensive repairs, this Fiesta presents a high-risk proposition for continued use.