2018 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · RF18 CEU

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2018 Ford Fiesta was conducted on 2022-07-01, resulting in a passing outcome despite the presence of two advisories regarding the nearside and offside front suspension arm pins or bushes. The test history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories for the same suspension components during both the 2022-07-01 MOT and the preceding test, indicating a persistent but not yet critical issue. While the vehicle passed, these advisories suggest that the suspension arm bushes are showing signs of wear, which could escalate into more severe movement or failure if left unaddressed. The lack of further failures or more critical defects in the intervening period implies a stable maintenance trend, though the advisories warrant proactive attention to prevent potential ride quality degradation or alignment issues. The recorded mileage of 69,430 miles for a vehicle aged eight years represents an average annual mileage of approximately 8,679 miles, which is within the typical range for a car of this age and class. Such usage levels are consistent with moderate daily commuting or seasonal driving, though they do not indicate either extreme light use or excessive wear from high mileage. The absence of significant mileage gaps or rapid accumulation suggests that the vehicle has been in regular use, which may have contributed to the observed suspension wear. However, the wear on the suspension arm bushes could be exacerbated by prolonged periods of static loading, particularly if the vehicle has been left parked in a manner that causes uneven stress on these components. The suspension system’s integrity is further influenced by the overall vehicle alignment and the condition of associated components like coil springs and strut mounts, all of which should be inspected to mitigate further deterioration. Given the recurring advisories for the front suspension arm bushes, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the suspension system during the test drive. Listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises, particularly when the vehicle is driven over bumps or at low speeds, as these may indicate further wear or detachment of the bushes. Visually inspect the suspension arms for any signs of excessive play or misalignment, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns that could suggest misalignment caused by suspension issues. Additionally, verify that the headlamp alignment has been corrected, as the previous failure highlighted an incorrectly aimed beam, which could impact visibility and safety. If the advisories persist or worsen, the suspension arms should be replaced promptly, as continued use may lead to reduced ride comfort, increased tyre wear, and potential handling instability. For the buyer, the next steps should focus on addressing the suspension advisories while also performing a comprehensive physical inspection tailored to the vehicle’s age and usage profile. Start by checking the tyre condition, particularly for any signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can compromise structural integrity over time. Inspect the brake system for signs of corrosion on discs or binding calipers, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, as standing brake systems can lead to rust buildup. Verify the condition of the 12V battery and associated electrical components, as older vehicles may experience reduced performance due to battery degradation or parasitic drains. Finally, consider the calendar-based servicing of fluids, such as the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant, as these should be replaced according to Ford’s recommended intervals, even if the vehicle has not reached the mileage thresholds for a full service. A service book or service history should be reviewed to confirm compliance with manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedules, which are critical for long-term reliability.