2018 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · RF18 CEV

The latest MOT test passed on 26 March 2026, but the recorded advisories indicate a shift in the vehicle's maintenance requirements. While the car has maintained a consistent pass record, the trend is moving from tyre-related advisories to more critical consumable wear in the braking system. The recent mention of worn, pitted, or scored front brake discs alongside thinning pads suggests that the braking components are nearing the end of their serviceable life. This transition indicates that while the vehicle is currently roadworthy, it is entering a period where immediate mechanical investment will be necessary to maintain safety standards. The recorded mileage of 43,303 miles over an eight-year period represents an average annual usage of approximately 5,413 miles. This is considerably lower than typical UK driving patterns, suggesting the vehicle has seen light use or has been subject to long periods of inactivity. While lower mileage often correlates with less wear on the engine and gearbox, it presents specific risks associated with vehicles that sit idle. These risks include the degradation of rubber components, battery health decline, and the potential for brake components to seize or corrode due to a lack of regular friction and heat cycles. During a test drive, particular attention must be paid to the front braking performance. You should listen for any metallic grinding or squealing when applying the brakes and feel for any shuddering or pulsation through the brake pedal, which are classic symptoms of scored or warped discs. Given the history of tyre advisories regarding edge wear, you must also inspect the tread patterns on all four tyres. Uneven wear on the inner or outer edges can indicate misaligned geometry or worn suspension bushes, which should be checked for play or excessive movement. Because the vehicle has been driven infrequently, a thorough physical inspection is required to check for age-related degradation. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for any signs of perishing or fine cracking, which indicates the rubber has hardened and lost its grip despite having sufficient tread. Check the condition of the 12V battery and ensure that the service history shows evidence of time-based maintenance, such as annual oil changes and brake fluid replacements, rather than just mileage-based intervals. Finally, examine the underside for any signs of standing corrosion on the exhaust system or suspension components that may have developed during periods of inactivity.