2004 Ford Fusion 1.4L Petrol · S24 AFK

The most recent MOT, carried out on 11 February 2026, was passed but returned an advisory noting corrosion on the brake pipe and a light coating of grease. Over the last four years the vehicle has repeatedly been flagged for the same brake‑pipe corrosion, slight corrosion on the front brake‑hose ferrules and wear on the rear axle swivel pins and bushes, with an additional advisory in 2024 concerning a severely deteriorated dust cover on the off‑side front suspension arm ball joint. Although the car has not failed a test since early 2023, the recurrence of these items indicates a maintenance trend that is essentially static – the faults are being noted but not yet rectified, so the situation is neither improving nor deteriorating dramatically, but it does require attention before the next test. At 111,509 miles recorded for a 2004 model, the average annual mileage works out at roughly 5,000 mi per year, which is low for a vehicle of this age. Such modest usage often points to periods of infrequent driving or long spells of storage, both of which can accelerate age‑related degradation of rubber components, seals and corrosion‑prone parts despite the low mileage. The low mileage does not, however, erase the wear that accumulates with time, particularly on suspension bushings, brake lines and electrical connections, so the buyer should treat the car as a 22‑year‑old rather than a low‑kilometre one. When inspecting the car, give particular focus to the braking system. Examine the front and rear brake pipes for any signs of rust, pitting or leakage and consider replacing them, as corrosion can lead to reduced hydraulic pressure or sudden failure. The front brake‑hose ferrules should be checked for corrosion and the hoses themselves for cracking or bulging; any soft pedal feel, brake shudder or uneven pad wear would corroborate a developing issue. The off‑side front suspension arm ball‑joint dust cover is reported as severely deteriorated – inspect the ball joint for excessive play by rocking the wheel at the 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock positions; a clunk or uneven tyre wear would suggest the joint is nearing the end of its service life and should be replaced. Rear axle swivel pins and bushes, flagged as slightly worn, should be checked for looseness or a noticeable wobble when the rear wheels are turned; any rear‑end clunk or vague steering feel could indicate the pins are close to failure. Finally, verify that the nearside stop lamp now functions correctly, as a faulty lamp often points to wiring harness corrosion that can affect other lighting circuits. Beyond the specific advisories, a vehicle of this age warrants a thorough age‑related inspection. Inspect all tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry‑rot or age‑related hardening; even with low mileage tyres older than six years should be replaced. Test the 12 V battery voltage and load, as prolonged standing can cause sulphation and reduced cranking power. Replace brake fluid if it has not been serviced in the last two years, and check the condition of the coolant, power‑steering and transmission fluids for signs of contamination or low levels. Look for rust on wheel arches, underbody panels and suspension components, and ensure the exhaust system is free of excessive corrosion or holes. A complete service history, including timing‑belt or chain replacement if applicable, will give further confidence in the vehicle’s long‑term reliability.