2010 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · OV10 SVG

The most recent MOT test on the 2010 Ford Fiesta recorded a passing outcome on 2025-10-17, with two advisories present: light misting of oil in the near-side front shock absorber and a minor exhaust gas leak. Despite the failure in 2022-12-13, which highlighted critical issues such as a missing steering rack gaiter and adversely affected position lamp, the subsequent MOT history shows a general trend of stability, with only minor recurring advisories rather than persistent failures. The vehicle’s maintenance record has not deteriorated significantly, though the presence of persistent oil leaks and tyre wear close to legal limits suggests ongoing wear and tear that should be monitored closely. The advisories from previous years—particularly those related to tyre perishing, coil spring corrosion, and steering rack play—demand attention, indicating that while the car remains roadworthy, its structural and mechanical integrity is being compromised by prolonged exposure to these conditions. The recorded mileage of 117,789 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 16 years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of around 7,362 miles, which is typical for a car of this age and usage profile. This level of mileage is consistent with moderate, regular use rather than either light or heavy wear, though the gaps between MOT tests—particularly the extended period between 2022-12-13 and 2025-10-17—may indicate periods of less frequent operation. Over such mileage, components like suspension bushes, coil springs, and steering systems are expected to show signs of wear, especially if the vehicle has been driven on rough roads or subjected to prolonged static conditions that accelerate corrosion. The oil leak advisories and tyre wear patterns suggest that the drivetrain and suspension have been subjected to consistent stress, warranting further investigation into the root causes of these issues. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination and test drive include the suspension system, steering components, and tyre condition. The light misting of oil in the near-side front shock absorber could indicate early-stage hydraulic failure, with symptoms such as reduced damping effectiveness, clunking noises from the front end during cornering or over bumps, and a loss of ride comfort. Listen for any unusual suspension clunks or uneven ride height when driving over rough terrain, as these may reveal further wear in the shock absorbers or associated linkages. The minor exhaust leak could lead to reduced engine efficiency or even carbon monoxide emissions if left unaddressed, so check for exhaust backpressure or unusual noises from the tailpipe, particularly when accelerating. Additionally, the corroded rear coil springs and potential oil leaks suggest that the rear suspension may be compromised, potentially causing binding or uneven ride quality—test for this by observing the vehicle’s alignment and listening for any rattling or excessive movement in the rear when cornering. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should also focus on the tyre condition, given the recurring advisories of wear close to legal limits and tyre perishing. Inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can weaken the tyre structure and increase the risk of blowouts, especially in cold or dry conditions. Check the tread depth uniformly across the tyre faces and edges, as the wear patterns suggest lateral wear, which may indicate alignment or suspension issues. The presence of body damage noted in 2020-12-26 should be verified during a visual inspection, as structural integrity issues can exacerbate corrosion and lead to further failures. For fluid servicing, given the vehicle’s age and the advisories of potential fluid degradation, consider checking the condition of the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these can degrade over time even without mileage accumulation. A thorough inspection of the 12V battery, given its age and the advisories of play in the steering rack and potential corrosion, is also essential, as a failing battery can lead to electrical gremlins and further wear on connected systems. Finally, if possible, obtain the vehicle’s service history to confirm that scheduled maintenance—such as oil changes, valve adjustments, and suspension servicing—has been completed in line with Ford’s recommended intervals.