1998 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · S73 SKU

The 1998 Ford Fiesta’s most recent MOT test on 16 June 2025 confirms it remains roadworthy, with no defects or advisories recorded at 43,470 miles. The overall trend since 2022 shows consistency—no recurring failures or advisories—though the single failure in June 2024 (43,194 miles) stands out as an anomaly. Given the vehicle’s age and the absence of structural or mechanical advisories in recent tests, the lack of defects suggests either diligent maintenance or a vehicle that has been kept in relatively light use. However, the failure in 2024—despite passing the previous test just two days earlier—warries scrutiny of whether the issue was a one-off oversight or a hidden underlying problem. The recorded mileage of 43,470 miles over 28 years equates to approximately 1,552 miles annually, a figure unusually low for a vehicle of this age. The gap between tests is standard (annual intervals), but the near-identical mileage between the 2024 failure and the subsequent pass (just 10 miles difference) implies either a brief period of non-use or a test retake. No significant mileage jumps or prolonged inactivity are evident, which could indicate the car has been stored rather than actively driven. This pattern alone does not predict mechanical wear, but it does suggest the need for closer inspection of components typically affected by low-mileage neglect, such as suspension integrity and fluid degradation. Given the absence of advisories or defects in recent tests, the primary focus for an in-person inspection should centre on the suspension system—particularly the condition of coil springs, bushes, and dampers—given the vehicle’s age. The 2024 failure, despite passing the prior test, raises questions about brake responsiveness or binding calipers, so the tester should verify disc thickness, pad wear, and hydraulic function. Structural corrosion, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe, should also be examined, as rust can compromise roadworthiness without always appearing in MOT records. Finally, the engine bay and drivetrain fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid) warrant inspection for leaks or degradation, as these are not routinely tested but can develop silently over time.