2004 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · RN04 MOU

The most recent MOT test for this 2004 Ford Fiesta was conducted on 2021-10-12, resulting in a failure with several advisories that did not meet the required standards for roadworthiness. The pattern of MOT results reveals a concerning trend of recurring major and advisory failures, particularly in the brake pipe corrosion, rear shock absorber leaks, and tyre wear issues. While there were periods of passing MOTs in 2018, 2019, and 2020, the vehicle’s history is dominated by persistent mechanical deficiencies, with multiple serious failures in 2017 and 2018 related to corrosion and fluid leaks. The presence of these repeated issues suggests either inadequate past maintenance or underlying structural vulnerabilities that have not been adequately addressed, indicating that the vehicle may still pose significant roadworthiness risks if not thoroughly inspected and serviced before purchase. The recorded mileage of 117,756 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 22 years represents an unusually low annual usage rate of around 5,353 miles per year, which is far below the industry average for vehicles of this age. Such low mileage can often reflect periods of prolonged inactivity, particularly if the car has been stored for extended durations without proper maintenance, leading to issues such as standing corrosion, fluid degradation, and component deterioration from lack of use. However, the absence of higher mileage accumulation suggests that while wear on consumables like tyres and brake pads may be less severe than expected, other systems—such as the suspension, brakes, and exhaust—have been subjected to repeated failures, hinting at deeper mechanical wear or design limitations. Buyers should be cautious, as low mileage alone does not negate the need for rigorous inspection of high-risk components, especially those prone to corrosion and fluid-related failures. Given the vehicle’s MOT history, the buyer must prioritise a thorough mechanical inspection to confirm the resolution of all previously recorded defects. The brake pipe corrosion from 2017 and 2019 is a critical concern, as severely corroded brake pipes can lead to reduced braking effectiveness, fluid leaks, or even catastrophic failure if left unaddressed. During a test drive, listen for any unusual brake pulsation, uneven braking response, or signs of fluid leakage beneath the vehicle, particularly around the rear wheels where previous leaks were noted. The rear shock absorbers, which failed due to serious fluid leaks in multiple MOTs, should be inspected for oil misting, excessive play, or bottom-out behaviour, as these symptoms indicate progressive failure and potential instability. If the leaks have been repaired, ensure the seals are intact and the shocks are fully functional, as misting or fluid loss can lead to suspension binding or excessive bouncing. For a vehicle of this age and usage profile, the buyer should also conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the undercarriage for signs of rust, particularly around wheel arches, exhaust systems, and underbody components, as the repeated MOT failures suggest corrosion may have been an ongoing issue. Check the tyres for sidewall perishing, uneven wear patterns, or cracks that could indicate age-related deterioration or improper alignment, despite the advisories on tyre wear being relatively recent. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the 12V system is operational, as prolonged disuse can lead to battery failure or voltage drops affecting electrical components. Fluid levels should be checked—particularly brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil—considering the vehicle’s age, as fluids degrade over time even without use. Finally, verify that all service records are up to date, particularly for the suspension, brakes, and exhaust systems, as these are the most critical areas of concern. If the buyer proceeds with purchase, a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is strongly recommended to validate the repairs and assess the vehicle’s overall structural integrity before any further use.