2014 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · SA14 HRW

The most recent DVSA examination on 22 September 2025 resulted in a clean pass with no defects or advisories recorded, and this is consistent with the broader pattern across the past several tests. Between 2020 and 2025, the vehicle has passed six consecutive MOTs with no recorded issues, demonstrating a stable and well-maintained condition from a roadworthiness perspective. The only notable interruption to this trend was a dangerous failure recorded on 28 June 2023 for a worn nearside track rod end ball joint, which was evidently rectified immediately as the same date shows a subsequent pass. An advisory from March 2019 regarding light oil misting on the nearside rear shock absorber has not reappeared in any later test, suggesting either the damping issue was resolved or has not progressed to a concerning level. Overall, the maintenance trajectory appears stable and improving compared to the 2023 incident, with no repeat advisories or recurring defect patterns. The recorded mileage of 103,804 miles over approximately 12 years equates to an annual average of around 8,650 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and segment. There are no significant gaps or unusual patterns in the recorded mileages that would suggest long periods of standing or, conversely, excessive high-mileage use. This steady, moderate usage profile is generally favourable for mechanical longevity, as it tends to avoid both the corrosion and dry-joint issues associated with low-mileage or stored vehicles, and the accelerated wear seen on high-mileage examples. The wear on consumables such as brakes, tyres, and suspension components should therefore be proportionate to the odometer reading rather than skewed by unusual usage conditions. Despite the clean MOT history, a prospective buyer should still carry out a number of age- and mileage-appropriate physical checks before committing to purchase. At 12 years old, the tyres warrant particular attention for sidewall perishing and cracking due to age-related rubber degradation, even if the tread depth remains legal, as old tyres can fail catastrophically under load. The 12-volt battery should be tested for its state of health, as units of this age are often near the end of their service life, and a failing battery can cause electrical gremlins and starting issues. Given the vehicle's age, it is also worth checking the production date stamp on the battery, as anything beyond five to six years old should be considered for replacement. Given the 2019 advisory concerning the nearside rear shock absorber, particular attention should be paid to the rear suspension during inspection and test drive. Listen for any knocking or clonking noises over bumps, and observe whether the vehicle remains level when loaded or exhibits excessive bounce after compression, as both would suggest the damper has deteriorated further since the advisory was raised. On the test drive, listen for any clunks from the front end over uneven surfaces, which could indicate worn suspension bushes, anti-roll bar drop links, or a return of steering component wear following the 2023 track rod end replacement. Finally, verify the service history documentation to confirm regular timing belt or chain inspections, oil and filter changes, and time-based replacement of brake fluid, coolant, and spark plugs, as these calendar-based services are essential on a vehicle of this age regardless of its MOT outcomes.