2015 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · OU65 WHM

The most recent MOT test on the 2015 Ford Fiesta, conducted on 2026-06-22, resulted in a clean pass with no defects recorded. This outcome contrasts sharply with the vehicle’s previous MOT history, which included multiple major failures and persistent advisories over the past five years. Notably, the 2021 MOT was a major failure due to fractured rear coil springs, a critical structural component that can lead to uneven ride quality, excessive body roll, and potential long-term suspension degradation if left unaddressed. While subsequent MOTs have shown no further major issues, the presence of recurring advisories—such as worn rear axle swivel pins and bushes, and thin brake pads—suggests ongoing wear patterns that warrant closer attention. The absence of recent failures indicates either effective maintenance or that the vehicle has been driven in a manner that mitigates wear, but the advisories imply that certain components are nearing or exceeding their operational limits, particularly in the suspension and braking systems. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 72,314 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,574 miles per year, which is consistent with typical usage for a 11-year-old car. This level of mileage is neither exceptionally low nor high for its age, but it does not necessarily indicate heavy or light usage alone—it reflects a steady, perhaps slightly conservative driving pattern. However, the fact that the vehicle has been driven over 72,000 miles without a major MOT failure in the last five years suggests it has likely been maintained reasonably well, though the advisories point to areas where wear has been gradual rather than sudden. The absence of significant mileage gaps or rapid accumulation does not immediately raise red flags, but the wear advisories—particularly on the rear suspension and brakes—should prompt a closer inspection of how the vehicle has been driven, as excessive cornering, braking, or off-road use could accelerate component wear. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination and test drive are the suspension system and braking components, given the recurring advisories. In the suspension, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises when driving over bumps, particularly near the rear axle, as this could indicate further wear in the swivel pins or bushes. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, especially on the rear tyres, which may suggest misalignment or suspension issues. Inspect the rear coil springs for any signs of further deterioration, such as sagging or excessive play, which could compromise ride stability and handling. On the brakes, listen for a grinding or squeaking sound when braking, which may indicate thin pads or worn discs. Also, check for any binding or excessive play in the calipers, which could suggest corrosion or misalignment, particularly if the vehicle has been left standing for prolonged periods. During the test drive, apply the brakes firmly and smoothly to assess for brake shudder, uneven stopping distances, or any vibration, which could signal warped discs or uneven pad wear. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should also focus on the vehicle’s overall condition and maintenance history. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, it is advisable to inspect the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with moderate mileage due to exposure to UV light and temperature fluctuations. Check the 12V battery for signs of corrosion on the terminals and test its charge capacity, as older vehicles are more prone to battery failure, especially if the alternator has not been serviced recently. Inspect the fluid levels and condition of the engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and power steering fluid, paying particular attention to any signs of contamination or degradation, as these fluids can degrade over time even without significant mileage. Additionally, verify the presence of service book stamps for the last scheduled oil change, brake service, and suspension component checks, as these records can provide insight into whether the vehicle has been maintained according to manufacturer recommendations. Finally, a thorough visual inspection of the exhaust system for corrosion or leaks, and the exhaust emissions performance, should be conducted to ensure compliance with current environmental standards.