2018 Ford Ecosport 1.5L Petrol · RO18 FTF

The most recent DVSA examination on 9 July 2026 recorded a clean PASS with no advisories, which represents the strongest possible outcome and suggests the vehicle was presented in sound roadworthy condition at that point. Reviewing the trajectory across the recorded MOT history, the pattern is generally one of consistency rather than deterioration, with PASS results on each occasion since a single Major failure in April 2021 relating to an offside rear tyre cut. The advisory observations recorded in 2024 and 2025 concentrated on front tyre condition, indicating a developing wear or ageing trend at the front axle that had not yet crossed into failure territory but warrants ongoing attention. Overall the maintenance trend appears stable, with the most recent test confirming that previously noted issues had either been rectified or had not progressed to a defect level. With 33,981 miles recorded over approximately eight years, this Ecosport has covered around 4,248 miles annually, which is substantially below the average for a vehicle of its age and suggests either predominantly light use, extended periods of standing, or a combination of both. Low annual mileage of this nature reduces wear on major drivetrain and engine components, but it introduces specific mechanical concerns relating to inactivity. Vehicles that sit for prolonged periods are more susceptible to brake disc surface corrosion, brake caliper seizure due to piston seals drying out, and corrosion forming on exposed underbody and suspension components. The relatively modest mileage also means that time-based servicing items such as brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid degradation should be considered as critical as odometer-based servicing, since these fluids deteriorate through age and moisture ingress regardless of distance covered. Given the recurring advisories on front tyres in both 2024 and 2025, a prospective buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection of all four tyres, paying particular attention to the nearside and offside front items for any signs of uneven shoulder wear, sidewall cracking or perishing, and overall tread depth across the full width rather than just the central grooves. On a test drive, listen and feel for symptoms of worn suspension components such as clonking or knocking from the front axle over bumps, particularly from the anti-roll bar bushes, drop links, and lower arm bushes, which are common wear items on vehicles of this age. Uneven tyre wear across an axle can also point to worn suspension bushes, weak coil springs, or tracking misalignment, so any steering pull or deviation should be noted and investigated. The front tyres should also be checked for age by inspecting the DOT date code on the sidewall, as rubber compounds degrade with calendar age even when tread depth remains adequate. Beyond the tyre-related observations, the low usage profile makes several additional inspections highly advisable prior to purchase. The 12V battery should be load-tested, as lead-acid batteries left in a partially discharged state for prolonged periods suffer reduced capacity and lifespan. All brake calipers should be examined for freedom of movement, with particular attention to the sliders and pistons, and the brake discs checked for lip formation and surface corrosion that could indicate the vehicle has been left standing for extended intervals. The service book and digital service history should be reviewed to confirm that annual oil and filter changes have been carried out regardless of mileage, as manufacturer service schedules typically stipulate a maximum interval of twelve months. Finally, the underside of the vehicle should be examined on a ramp for any evidence of standing corrosion, particularly around suspension arms, exhaust mounting points, and structural seams, while a check of all fluid levels, their condition, and their respective replacement dates will help confirm whether time-sensitive maintenance has been neglected despite the modest odometer reading.