2019 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · RJZ 2023

The most recent MOT inspection on 30 April 2025 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance history suggests a deteriorating trend regarding its running gear and structural components. While the vehicle has successfully passed its inspections, the frequency and nature of the defects recorded in the 2024 and 2025 tests indicate that mechanical wear is accelerating. The transition from failing on major suspension and lighting faults in 2024 to receiving multiple advisories concerning steering, exhaust, and gearbox leaks in 2025 suggests that while the vehicle is being kept legally roadworthy, the underlying mechanical condition is regressing rather than being proactively rectified. With 147,735 miles recorded over approximately seven years, this Ford Fiesta has covered an average of over 21,000 miles per year, which is significantly higher than the UK national average. This high-mileage profile implies that the vehicle has likely been used for extensive motorway or long-distance commuting, which places substantial cumulative stress on the drivetrain, suspension, and braking systems. A buyer should be aware that at this mileage, many major service items and wear-and-tear components are likely approaching the end of their functional life, and the rapid accumulation of miles often correlates with more frequent failures of rubber bushings, ball joints, and seals. The MOT history highlights several critical areas requiring immediate attention during a test drive. The advisory regarding a knock in the steering rack is a significant concern; you should listen for any clunking or knocking sounds through the steering wheel when navigating uneven surfaces or turning the wheel at low speeds, as this could indicate internal rack wear or failing mounting bushes. Furthermore, the offside front coil spring is noted as corroded, and the front exhaust flexy section is deteriorating. You should listen for excessive vibration, rattling, or a change in exhaust note, particularly during acceleration, as a failing flexi-pipe can lead to increased emissions and noise. The advisory for an oil leak in the gearbox area also necessitates a careful inspection of the ground beneath the vehicle for fresh fluid and a check for any slipping or erratic gear changes during operation. Finally, the recurring advisories regarding tyre condition, specifically cracking and perishing, suggest that while the tread depth may be sufficient, the rubber integrity is compromised due to age or environmental exposure. Inspect the sidewalls of all tyres for any signs of dry rot or fine cracks, as these can lead to sudden structural failure. Given the high mileage and the recorded oil leak, you must verify the service history to ensure that oil changes and fluid top-ups have been performed regularly. Pay close attention to the suspension components during the drive; any uneven tyre wear or pulling to one side could indicate that the previously noted issues with the track rod ends and lower suspension arms have not been fully resolved or that further geometry issues are developing.