2015 Ford Fiesta 1.5L Diesel · OV65 UGH

The most recent MOT test conducted in October 2025 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle shows a pattern of recurring advisories that suggest a gradual decline in the condition of consumable components. While the vehicle has passed its recent tests, the history indicates a trend of managing wear rather than proactive replacement. The presence of ongoing exhaust corrosion and recent tyre wear issues suggests that while the car is being maintained sufficiently to remain roadworthy, it is approaching a stage where several mechanical subsystems will require significant investment to maintain standard operating conditions. With 145,241 miles recorded over approximately eleven years, this Ford Fiesta has covered an average of 13,204 miles per year. This represents relatively high usage for a small hatchback of this age, which places consistent mechanical stress on the drivetrain, suspension, and braking systems. High-mileage vehicles like this are prone to accelerated wear on rubber components and structural fatigue. You should expect that components such as the clutch, gearbox, and various engine mounts may be nearing the end of their service life, and the cumulative mileage means that the vehicle has likely undergone significant thermal cycling and mechanical vibration throughout its life. Specific attention must be paid to the exhaust system and the suspension. The MOT history shows a recurring advisory regarding a corroded rear silencer outer skin, which has persisted since at least 2024. This indicates progressive oxidation that will eventually lead to a structural failure or excessive noise; listen for a deep, droning exhaust note or rattling during acceleration. Furthermore, the 2023 failure regarding excessively worn axle swivel pins and bushes, combined with previous advisories for suspension arm ball joints, suggests the rear axle assembly has a history of instability. During your test drive, pay close attention to the rear of the car for any clunking sounds when driving over uneven surfaces or lateral movement when cornering, as these are symptoms of worn suspension bushes or mounting points. The recent advisory regarding the nearside front tyre being worn close to the legal limit and worn on the edge is a critical point for inspection. Uneven tyre wear often points to underlying geometry issues, such as incorrect wheel alignment or worn suspension components like wishbones or tie rod ends. Ensure you check the remaining tyres for similar edge wear or uneven tread patterns. Additionally, given the 2021 failure involving a leaking brake hose and low brake fluid, you should verify that the braking system feels firm and consistent. Any sponginess in the brake pedal or a shuddering sensation under braking could indicate that the hydraulic system or the discs are compromised. Finally, check the service history to ensure that fluid changes, particularly brake fluid and coolant, have been performed according to time intervals rather than just mileage.