2008 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · SC08 KCK

The most recent MOT, dated 27 November 2025, was passed but recorded a number of advisories covering the rear exhaust hanger, front brake‑hose ferrules, the off‑side front wing and minor corrosion to outer sills and floor panels. Over the last six years the Fiesta has moved from several dangerous and major failures – notably a fractured off‑side front coil spring, a fractured near‑side rear axle and extensive corrosion of rear suspension mounting points and brake pipes – to a clean pass with only non‑critical advisories. This pattern shows that the vehicle has undergone significant remedial work and that the current state is more stable than in the earlier years, although the legacy of corrosion and structural repairs remains a concern. At 116 020 miles recorded on an 18‑year‑old car the average annual mileage is roughly 6 400 miles, which sits within the normal UK usage envelope. There are no obvious large gaps in the mileage record, suggesting the car has not spent prolonged periods idle for many years, but the relatively modest total mileage for its age could also indicate periods of low use interspersed with occasional higher‑intensity trips. The modest mileage does not offset the need to examine wear‑related components that age with time as much as with distance, such as rubber hoses, suspension bushings and the exhaust system, especially given the history of corrosion and structural failure. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the rear axle, front coil springs and all suspension mounting points. On a test drive listen for clunking or thumping over bumps, especially from the front left side where the coil spring was previously fractured, and from the rear where the axle was once deemed dangerous. Visually inspect the rear axle housing for any signs of cracking, rust or distortion, and check that the rear suspension bushings and mounting brackets are solid, with no excessive play when the wheels are rocked. The brake‑pipe corrosion noted in several years is a serious safety issue; examine both front and rear brake hoses for any signs of pitting, cracking or wetness around the ferrules, and verify that the brake pedal feels firm with no sponginess. The broken rear exhaust hanger should be checked for proper mounting and any rattles from the exhaust during acceleration, while the off‑side front wing corrosion may point to underlying body‑panel rust that could spread if left untreated. Given the vehicle’s age, independent of the recorded mileage, the buyer should also assess tyre condition for side‑wall cracking or dry rot, especially if the tyres have not been replaced recently. Verify the health of the 12‑volt battery, as prolonged standing can lead to sulphation and reduced cranking power. Inspect all fluid levels and consider a full service of the cooling system, gearbox and brake fluid, as these fluids degrade over calendar time regardless of use. Finally, request the full service history and confirm that any major repairs – such as the axle replacement and coil‑spring repair – were carried out to manufacturer specifications and that all related components (e.g., brake lines, suspension bushes) were refreshed at the same time.