2006 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Petrol · RF06 LCG

The most recent MOT test on 2026-06-29 resulted in a passing outcome, but it is accompanied by two significant advisories related to tyre wear, both on the offside front and rear tyres approaching the legal limit with edge wear. While this does not immediately compromise roadworthiness, it indicates a pattern of excessive lateral or directional wear that could suggest misalignment, incorrect tyre pressure, or poor suspension geometry. The failure from 2023-05-23—where the offside front coil spring fractured and the nearside stop lamps were non-functional—represents a critical failure that should not be overlooked, as coil spring damage often correlates with deeper suspension or structural issues. The subsequent MOTs since then have been clean, suggesting either effective remedial work or a stable condition post-repair, but the absence of further spring-related defects or major issues over the intervening years is noteworthy. Overall, the maintenance trend appears to be stable, with no clear deterioration, though the tyre advisories and the historical coil spring failure warrant careful attention. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 86,914 miles at the time of this assessment is unusually low for its age of approximately 20 years, translating to roughly 4,346 miles per year. This rate of usage is significantly below the expected wear rate for a car of this vintage, which typically accumulates between 10,000 and 15,000 miles annually under normal driving conditions. Such low mileage can stem from infrequent use, long periods of storage, or a vehicle kept in a less demanding role, such as a secondary or non-commercial car. However, this also raises concerns about potential under-maintenance or neglect, particularly in areas prone to standing corrosion or fluid degradation over extended periods. For example, brakes may exhibit corrosion or binding from prolonged inactivity, and suspension components could be subject to stiffness or wear from lack of dynamic use. Prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system, focusing on the nearside and offside front discs and calipers for signs of corrosion, binding, or uneven wear. Listen for any grinding or squeaking when applying the brakes, which could indicate worn brake pads, warped discs, or seized calipers. The offside front coil spring failure from 2023 suggests the suspension system may have underlying issues, so examine the remaining springs, shocks, and bushings for signs of wear, clunking noises during cornering, or excessive play in the steering. Check for any fluid leaks around the steering rack, especially if the greasy advisory from 2021 persists, as this could indicate a failing seal or bearing. The tyre advisories should prompt a check of tyre alignment and pressure, as well as the condition of the sidewall for cracks or perishing, which can compromise structural integrity over time. For a vehicle of this age and low mileage, the buyer should also conduct a comprehensive inspection of the engine bay, focusing on fluid levels and condition. Given the extended period between MOTs, test the 12V battery for voltage output and signs of corrosion on terminals, as standing vehicles are particularly susceptible to battery failure. Inspect the exhaust system for corrosion or leaks, which could lead to emissions-related issues or structural compromise. Pay particular attention to the exhaust manifold and catalytic converter for signs of rust or damage, as these components are prone to deterioration in low-mileage vehicles left unused for prolonged periods. Finally, verify the service history for any time-based maintenance, such as oil changes, brake fluid flushes, and suspension component replacements, as these are critical for maintaining roadworthiness and preventing future failures. If the vehicle has been stored for significant periods, consider a professional inspection to address potential issues related to standing corrosion, fluid degradation, or component stiffness.