2018 Ford Ecosport 1.0L Petrol · RV68 OUC

The vehicle remains roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a shift towards developing wear-related defects. While the most recent test in September 2025 at 45,083 miles passed, the tester identified a severely deteriorated nearside front suspension arm ball joint dust cover. This represents a progression from the clean records seen in 2022 and 2023, indicating that rubber components are beginning to fail despite low usage. The mileage profile is consistently low for an eight-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 5,600 miles per year. Data shows a steady growth pattern, moving from 29,095 miles in January 2022 to 45,083 miles by September 2025. This low-frequency use suggests the car has not faced heavy mechanical stress on the drivetrain or engine. However, the low mileage often correlates with the degradation of rubber-based parts and tyres, which perish due to age and environmental exposure rather than mechanical friction. A buyer must physically inspect the front suspension closely, as the deteriorating ball joint dust cover noted in the 2025 test can lead to grease loss and premature ball joint failure if not replaced. The recurring advisories for cracking and perishing rear tyres in both 2024 and 2025 indicate the rubber is reaching the end of its structural life regardless of tread depth. Additionally, the thin front brake pads flagged in September 2024 should be verified to ensure they were replaced since that inspection.