2004 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · RF54 RZR

The 2004 Ford Fiesta’s most recent MOT test on 19 January 2026 at 36,686 miles passed without any defects, confirming current roadworthiness. The record shows a consistent pattern of clean passes over the past five years, with no recurring advisories or failures—indicating either diligent maintenance or a vehicle that has yet to develop significant wear. The January 2025 test stands out as anomalous, with two entries on the same day (one pass, one fail) at 31,619 miles, though no defects were recorded in either, suggesting a possible administrative error rather than mechanical issues. Beyond that, the vehicle’s history remains unblemished, with no evidence of worsening conditions in suspension, brakes, or structural components. The recorded mileage of 36,686 miles over 22 years equates to approximately 1,668 miles annually, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age. The gap between the October 2022 test at 28,104 miles and the January 2024 test at 28,950 miles—just 846 miles in over two years—implies prolonged periods of inactivity, which could accelerate deterioration of fluids, seals, and rubber components. Conversely, the 2,739 miles logged between January 2024 and January 2025 suggests recent use, though the lack of advisories or failures during that period does not necessarily preclude hidden wear. Buyers should note that low mileage does not guarantee longevity; prolonged storage may have contributed to neglected areas such as battery health, fuel system contamination, or degraded suspension bushes. Given the absence of recorded defects, the primary focus for an in-person inspection should centre on components prone to silent failure in low-mileage, older vehicles. The suspension—particularly coil springs, bushes, and shock absorbers—should be examined for uneven wear, corrosion, or binding, as these are often overlooked until they compromise handling. Brake discs and calipers warrant scrutiny for uneven thickness, glazing, or binding, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, as moisture and lack of use can accelerate corrosion. Structural integrity, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe, should be checked for corrosion, as rust can compromise load-bearing elements without immediate MOT failure. Finally, the battery, fuel system, and electrical connections—often neglected in low-mileage cars—may require testing, as prolonged inactivity can lead to sulphation or fuel degradation.