2018 Ford Fiesta 1.1L Petrol · OV67 MLO

The most recent MOT test conducted in January 2026 resulted in a pass, but only after a dangerous failure regarding a structural bulge in the offside rear tyre. Looking at the overall maintenance trend, the vehicle shows a pattern of reactive maintenance rather than proactive care. The history of failures for lighting, washer fluid, and tyre condition suggests that faults are often rectified only when they reach a threshold that triggers an MOT failure. While the vehicle has had several clean passes, the recent dangerous defect indicates that routine inspections of consumables like tyres may have been neglected. With 52,766 miles recorded over approximately eight years, the vehicle averages roughly 6,600 miles per year. This is a relatively low annual mileage, which is generally positive for the longevity of the engine and drivetrain components. However, lower mileage can be a double-edged sword; it may indicate that the car is used for short, infrequent journeys, which can lead to issues such as carbon buildup in the engine or reduced battery health due to insufficient charging time. Mechanically, the lower usage means there is less wear on the clutch and gearbox, but there is a higher likelihood of age-related degradation in rubber components and corrosion on brake discs or exhaust systems due to the vehicle standing for periods. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the condition of the tyres, as the MOT history shows recurring issues in this area, including low tread depth advisories and a dangerous structural failure. During your inspection, check the entire sidewall of every tyre for perishing, cracking, or bulges, as rubber naturally degrades over eight years regardless of mileage. On the test drive, listen for any uneven road noise or vibrations that could indicate poor wheel alignment or tyre deformation. You should also inspect the tread depth of the front tyres specifically, as they were previously noted as being low, and ensure they meet the legal minimum with plenty of life remaining. Furthermore, because of the low annual mileage, you must carefully inspect the braking system and suspension. Check for any brake shudder during deceleration or a pulling sensation to one side, which could indicate binding calipers or unevenly worn discs. Inspect the suspension bushes and coil springs for any signs of perished rubber or excessive movement, as these components can suffer from age-related fatigue. It is also essential to verify the service book to ensure that fluid changes, particularly brake fluid and engine oil, have been performed on a calendar basis rather than just by mileage, as time-based degradation is a significant factor in vehicles with this usage profile.