2015 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · SB64 PNE

The most recent MOT record from February 2026 at 68,715 miles shows a clean pass with no defects, but this follows a concerning pattern of repeated failures and advisories over the past two years. The February 2026 failure just 143 miles earlier—where the nearside track rod end ball joint exhibited excessive play—demonstrates a worsening issue in the front suspension, despite the car passing the same test a week later. Earlier in 2025, the offside rear fuel tank shield was missing (a fire risk) alongside a serious risk of detachment from the offside front track rod end, both of which should have been addressed immediately. The 2024 test revealed corrosion in the rear coil spring and slight but persistent play in the offside front track rod end, suggesting long-term neglect of suspension components. While the latest pass is encouraging, the recurring suspension faults—particularly the track rod ends—indicate a vehicle that has either been poorly maintained or driven aggressively, compromising handling and safety. The mileage accumulation of roughly 6,247 miles per year aligns with typical usage for a car of this age, but the MOT history reveals critical gaps in maintenance rather than excessive driving. Between February 2024 and February 2025, the car covered 6,981 miles in a year, yet the 2024 test highlighted a corroded rear coil spring and damaged shock absorbers—issues that should have been rectified before the next test. The fact that the offside front track rod end was flagged as seriously worn in 2025, yet only slightly played in 2024, suggests either delayed repairs or a component that was already compromised. The absence of major mileage spikes rules out abuse, but the persistence of suspension defects points to a previous owner who either ignored advisories or lacked mechanical awareness. For a buyer, the front suspension—particularly the track rod end ball joints—must be the top priority. Both sides have shown progressive wear, with the offside unit reaching a serious risk level in 2025. The rear coil spring corrosion in 2024, while not immediately dangerous, could lead to uneven ride height or premature failure. Shock absorbers with external casing damage, as noted in 2024, may have compromised damping, affecting braking and stability. Structural corrosion on the bodywork, though not critical, suggests exposure to moisture or poor storage conditions. A thorough inspection should include checking all suspension mounts, bushings, and ball joints for play, as well as verifying that the fuel tank shield (if originally fitted) has been reinstalled. The absence of brake-related failures is positive, but given the suspension history, a test drive should assess steering responsiveness and handling under cornering. The vehicle’s recent clean MOT pass is a positive sign, but the underlying trend of unresolved suspension issues demands caution. A buyer should verify that all advisories from previous tests—especially the track rod ends and coil spring—have been professionally addressed. Without documented repairs for these critical components, the risk of a sudden failure increases, particularly given the progressive deterioration seen in the MOT records. Prioritising a pre-purchase suspension inspection by a qualified mechanic is strongly advised.