2007 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · OV07 HTX

A persistent theme throughout the MOT record of this 2007 Ford Fiesta is the gradual development of structural corrosion alongside chronic brake and under-bonnet oil leakage advisories. The most recent test on 18 March 2026 produced a pass, but it carried forward an oil leak advisory that has now appeared at consecutive tests, alongside worsening front brake disc wear that has been flagged in some form at every examination since 2023. The 2025 test cycle is particularly telling, as a failure was recorded earlier the same day before a retest secured a pass, with the rear sub-frame noted as corroded though not seriously weakened. General corrosion advisories have also been added in 2026, suggesting the vehicle is entering a phase where surface oxidation is becoming established across multiple areas rather than remaining isolated to one component. At 96,988 miles over approximately nineteen years, this Fiesta has averaged around 5,100 miles annually, which is markedly low for a supermini of this vintage and indicative of either infrequent short journeys or extended periods of standing. The MOT history itself shows a consistent yearly testing rhythm with no significant gaps in compliance, which suggests the vehicle has remained registered and in use throughout, even if the actual distance covered has been modest. Low-mileage examples of this age often present with stiffened suspension bushes, dried brake caliper slide pins, and oil leaks from aged gaskets and seals, all of which align precisely with the recurring advisories on the brake discs, suspension components, and engine oil seepage seen here. The mileage itself does not appear to have jumped dramatically between tests, confirming a steady, light-use pattern rather than a sudden accumulation that might indicate long-distance motorway use. For a prospective buyer, the under-bonnet oil leak should be the first item physically inspected. Open the bonnet with the engine cold and look for fresh oil residue around the cam cover gasket, sump, and any crankcase ventilation hoses, as a seep that has persisted across multiple tests is likely worsening rather than stabilising. On the road, monitor for any blue smoke on startup or under hard acceleration, and check the underside for drips on a dry surface after the car has been parked overnight. The front brake discs should be felt through the brake pedal, as the recurring scoring and pitting advisories suggest the friction surfaces are becoming uneven; expect to detect a subtle vibration or pulsation under firm braking, and listen for any grinding that would indicate the pads have worn into the corroded disc lips. The track rod end dust cover damage flagged in 2025 also warrants attention at the front wheels, where any looseness, knocking, or uneven tyre wear on the inside shoulders would confirm deterioration of the joint itself. The corrosion profile requires a hands-on inspection with the vehicle raised or viewed over a pit if possible. Pay particular attention to the rear sub-frame mounting points, the suspension spring platforms, the inner wheel arches, and the sill seams, as the combination of rear sub-frame corrosion, general surface corrosion advisories, and light rear-end corrosion points to oxidisation spreading across multiple structural areas typical of a Fiesta now entering its twentieth year. The slightly distorted front road wheels noted in 2023 and 2024 should also be checked for cracks and run-out, as impacts from potholes can worsen distortion over time and lead to steering vibration at speed. Finally, the perished nearside rear tyre advisory should prompt a close inspection of all four tyres for cracking in the sidewalls, particularly given the low annual mileage that allows rubber to age and dry out regardless of tread depth.