2004 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · RN04 MPY

The most recent MOT test on 2025-09-16 resulted in a passing outcome, though it was accompanied by persistent advisories that reflect ongoing wear and potential long-term concerns. While this latest test shows no major failures or dangerous defects, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues that suggest a history of either under-maintenance or significant mechanical stress. The failure in 2021-06-14—particularly the near-side front coil spring fracture and deteriorated ball joint—indicates that the suspension system has been compromised, with the 2025 failure of the offside front shock absorber due to a serious fluid leak further underscoring this vulnerability. The corrosion advisories on the rear outer sills and brake disc corrosion from previous tests also point to environmental exposure and potential structural or component degradation over time, which could escalate if not addressed promptly. The advisories on tyre wear close to the legal limit, particularly on the offside front tyre, suggest that the vehicle has been driven with uneven or excessive lateral forces, which may have contributed to the suspension and braking wear patterns observed. The recorded mileage of 101,455 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 22 years represents an unusually low annual usage rate of around 4,612 miles per year, which is far below the industry average for a car of this age. Such low mileage often correlates with prolonged periods of stationary use, particularly in climates prone to corrosion or during winter months when vehicles are left unattended. However, this usage profile does not necessarily mitigate the wear and tear that has already taken place, as the suspension and braking systems appear to have endured significant stress despite infrequent operation. The presence of a fractured coil spring and deteriorated ball joint from the 2021 MOT failure, combined with the recurring corrosion advisories, implies that the vehicle may have been subjected to rough handling, excessive braking, or prolonged idling in damp conditions, all of which accelerate component failure. Buyers should be cautious, as the combination of low mileage and a history of structural and mechanical issues may indicate that the vehicle has been neglected in critical areas, leaving it vulnerable to further deterioration. For prospective buyers, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination include the suspension system, as the fractured coil spring and deteriorated ball joint from 2021 suggest that the near-side front suspension may be compromised. Visually check for any remaining damage to the coil spring, and listen for unusual clunking or rattling when the vehicle is driven, particularly over bumps or when cornering sharply. The offside front shock absorber failure due to fluid leakage indicates that the remaining shocks may be failing, so test for soft ride quality, excessive bottom-out, or uneven suspension travel. The brake discs show consistent wear and pitting, which could lead to reduced braking efficiency if not serviced soon. Inspect the discs for uneven thickness, scoring, or signs of glazing, and listen for grinding noises when braking, which may indicate worn brake pads or warped discs. Additionally, the corrosion advisories on the rear outer sills and previous MOT failures suggest that the vehicle’s structural integrity could be compromised, particularly in the wheel arches. Check for any further rust progression, especially near the wheel wells and suspension mounting points, as this could indicate underlying corrosion that may affect vehicle control. Beyond the mechanical checks, the tyre condition is a critical factor given the advisories of worn tyres close to the legal limit and outer sidewall perishing. Inspect the tyres for uneven wear patterns, which may indicate alignment or suspension issues, and check the sidewall for cracks or perishing, which can compromise tyre integrity and safety. The low annual mileage may have contributed to the tyre wear, but the advisories suggest that the vehicle has been driven in a way that has accelerated lateral wear. The 12V battery should be tested for health, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, as prolonged idling can lead to battery discharge. Check for any signs of corrosion on the battery terminals and ensure the vehicle starts reliably. The engine oil level being above maximum on previous tests indicates that the oil consumption may be higher than normal, which could stem from worn piston rings or valve guides. Given the age of the vehicle, a comprehensive fluid check is essential, including the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these can degrade over time even with low usage. Finally, verify that the service book has been updated, particularly for the suspension and braking components, as this will provide a record of when critical maintenance was last performed. If the service history is incomplete, consider arranging a professional inspection to address the known issues before purchase.