2006 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · SC06 AWP

The latest MOT test in July 2025 resulted in a failure due to excessively corroded nearside and offside rear brake pipes, alongside a harmful fluid leak, marking a clear deterioration in the vehicle’s condition. The history shows a worsening trend, with brake pipe corrosion escalating from advisories in 2023 and 2024 to outright failures in 2025, while additional issues such as rear coil spring corrosion and worn suspension bushes have persisted or developed over time. This pattern suggests deferred maintenance, particularly in the braking and suspension systems, which now requires urgent attention to restore roadworthiness. At 20 years old with 85,443 miles recorded, the Fiesta averages around 4,272 miles per year, indicating relatively low annual usage. Such mileage implies the car may have spent extended periods stationary, which can lead to its own set of problems, including seized or binding components, degraded fluids, and corrosion in underused systems. The low mileage does not necessarily equate to low wear, as age-related deterioration—such as perished rubber, corroded metalwork, and degraded seals—can be just as significant as mileage-induced wear. The recurring brake pipe corrosion, now a failure point, demands immediate inspection of the entire braking system, including the front pipes flagged as advisory in 2025. On a test drive, listen for metallic scraping or grinding from the rear brakes, which could indicate seized or unevenly worn components, and check for a spongy pedal or uneven braking, signs of fluid loss or air in the system. The rear coil springs, noted as corroded since 2024, should be examined for fractures or weakening, which can cause a knocking noise over bumps or uneven ride height. The swivel pins and bushes, also advisory in 2024, may contribute to vague steering or clunks during low-speed manoeuvres, so assess steering responsiveness and any abnormal noises. Given the car’s age and likely periods of inactivity, inspect all rubber components, including suspension bushes, ball joint dust covers, and tyre sidewalls, for perishing, cracks, or splits, as these degrade with time regardless of mileage. Check the 12V battery health, as low usage often leads to sulphation and reduced capacity, and verify the condition of brake discs for surface corrosion or pitting from standing. Fluid levels and conditions, particularly brake fluid, coolant, and power steering fluid if applicable, should be examined for moisture contamination or degradation, as these are time-sensitive regardless of mileage. Finally, confirm that all lighting systems, including the previously faulty stop lamps and windscreen wipers, are fully operational, as electrical gremlins are common in older vehicles.