2004 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · PE04 MLF

Age-related component degradation and steering wear define the mechanical profile of this 2004 Ford Fiesta, which secured its latest MOT pass on 23 April 2026 only after failing an initial test on the same day. This pattern of failing and then passing on rectifications is a recurring theme, as seen in both the 2026 and 2024 test cycles. The recent failure in April 2026 was triggered by excessive play in the nearside front outer track rod end ball joint, a critical steering component, while the 2024 failure involved an insecure offside rear exhaust system and an inoperative registration plate lamp. This history indicates a vehicle where mechanical wear is addressed reactively at the testing station rather than through preventative maintenance. With 103,511 miles recorded over 22 years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 4,705 miles per year, representing a low-usage profile. While low mileage can reduce overall drivetrain wear, it frequently introduces issues related to component stagnation and rubber degradation. The lack of regular, long-distance heat cycles allows moisture to accumulate in the exhaust system, which likely contributed to the mounting insecurity noted in 2024. Furthermore, rubber components that do not experience regular flexing tend to dry out and perish, directly correlating with the advisory for slight cracking on all tyre sidewalls recorded during the most recent 2026 inspection. For a prospective buyer, the steering and suspension systems demand immediate scrutiny during a test drive. Although the nearside front track rod end has been replaced, the offside counterpart and the front suspension bushes are of a similar age and operating under identical stresses. On a test drive, pay close attention to the steering response; feel for any central play, steering wheel vibration, or a tendency for the vehicle to pull to one side. Drive over speed bumps or uneven road surfaces and listen for distinct knocking, clicking, or clunking sounds, which would indicate that other steering joints or suspension bushes are nearing the end of their service life. Additionally, the physical condition of the tyres and the exhaust must be verified. The advisory for cracked tyre sidewalls across all four wheels is a safety concern that suggests the rubber is aging and losing structural integrity, meaning a full set of replacement tyres should be budgeted for immediately. Inspect the exhaust system visually to ensure the repairs made after the 2024 failure remain secure, listening for any metallic rattling, blowing, or excessive vibration from the rear of the cabin during idling and acceleration. Finally, given the vehicle's age, a thorough underbody inspection is advisable to check for corrosion on the brake pipes, fuel lines, and structural sills, which are common areas of deterioration for this model generation.