2014 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Petrol · RE14 AVM

Recurring issues with suspension components, tyre wear, and an ongoing oil leak define the mechanical profile of this Ford Fiesta. The most recent MOT history shows a failure on 16 May 2026 due to a dangerous front tyre tread depth below the legal 1.6mm limit, though it passed a subsequent test on 19 May 2026. This recent failure follows a pattern of intermittent issues, including a major failure in June 2025 regarding excessive wear or free play in the nearside front Macpherson strut top bush or bearing. While the vehicle has maintained a passing status, the presence of repeated advisories for brake disc condition and tyre degradation suggests a trend of components reaching their wear limits just before inspection. The vehicle has covered 98,682 miles over its approximately 12-year lifespan, representing an average annual accumulation of roughly 8,224 miles. This usage pattern is consistent with typical low-to-moderate annual mileage for a vehicle of this age. Mechanically, this level of use suggests that while the engine and drivetrain may not have faced extreme high-mileage stress, the vehicle is at an age where rubber components, such as suspension bushes and tyre sidewalls, are subject to age-related perishing alongside standard wear from road use. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the steering and suspension feel during a test drive, specifically looking for knocks or clunks when traversing uneven surfaces or turning the wheel at low speeds. This is necessitated by the recorded history of nearside front Macpherson strut top bush wear and offside front suspension arm ball joint play. Any pulling to one side or vibration through the steering wheel could indicate that these suspension components or the steering geometry require further attention. Additionally, the advisory for an oil leak, which has been noted in the most recent 2026 tests, warrants a visual inspection of the engine bay and underbody for active dripping or heavy oil staining. Braking performance should also be closely monitored to address the recurring advisories regarding pitted or scored brake discs, specifically on the offside rear. During a test drive, listen for any grinding noises during deceleration and feel for any pedal judder or pulsations, which can be symptomatic of uneven disc surfaces. Finally, the repeated mentions of tyre wear and edge damage indicate that tyre replacement and potentially an alignment check may be necessary to ensure the vehicle meets safety standards and avoids the dangerous tread depth failures seen in the May 2026 records.