2004 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · RJ04 ANP

The latest MOT test on 3 April 2026 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle is currently carrying a significant number of advisories. When reviewing the broader history, the maintenance trend is concerning and suggests a vehicle in a state of progressive decline. The records from March 2025 show major structural failures regarding the sub-frame and fuel system which required urgent remediation. While these were addressed to achieve a pass, the recurrence of corrosion advisories across the sub-frame, fuel pipes, and rear axle in the most recent test indicates that the vehicle is suffering from systemic rust that is outstripping the repairs. The recorded mileage of 164,167 miles over 22 years represents an average annual usage of approximately 7,462 miles, which is typical for a vehicle of this age and class. While the mileage is not excessively high for the year, it is substantial enough that the mechanical components are well into their wear cycle. A buyer should anticipate that consumables such as engine mounts, clutch plates, and gearbox synchronisers will show significant wear, and the overall mechanical tolerances will be wider than those of a lower-mileage example. Prospective buyers must prioritise a thorough underside inspection. The history of seriously weakened sub-frame mountings and leaking fuel pipes, combined with current advisories for the rear axle and fuel lines, points to severe corrosion. Use a torch to inspect the chassis and fuel delivery system for heavy scaling, pitting, or signs of recent amateur patching. During a test drive, listen for metallic knocks or clunks over uneven surfaces, as these often signal that the structural integrity of the suspension mounting points is compromised. Any smell of raw fuel during or after the drive should be treated as a critical warning sign. Further attention is required for the rear suspension and exhaust system. The corroded rear coil springs may lead to a sagging ride height or a bouncy sensation when traversing bumps, while the defective rear exhaust mounting can cause excessive vibration or a drone through the cabin. Inspect the rear tyres for uneven wear, which often accompanies failing springs or axle corrosion. Given the age and the pattern of failures, it is essential to verify the service history for calendar-based maintenance, specifically the timing belt and water pump intervals, as these components degrade regardless of the annual mileage.