2010 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · SC10 CVP

The most recent MOT history reveals a vehicle with a mixed but concerning trend in roadworthiness, particularly in the past year. The November 2025 test, conducted at just 39,278 miles, failed on a severely worn near-side front suspension ball joint and a minor exhaust leak, despite passing the prior test on the same day at nearly identical mileage. This suggests a rushed or incomplete inspection before the failure, as the ball joint fault—if undetected earlier—could have progressed rapidly. The November 2024 test showed front suspension bush wear and corrosion in the sub-frame, while the November 2023 tests highlighted repeated tyre failures, including structural separation and underinflation, alongside a leaking brake pipe. The pattern indicates a vehicle that has been neglected in critical areas, with recurring issues in suspension, brakes, and tyres. The most recent pass in November 2025 without defects is misleading, as it follows a failure just two days prior, raising doubts about the thoroughness of the inspection process. The mileage record suggests unusually low usage for a vehicle of this age, with just 39,278 miles over 16 years—approximately 2,455 miles annually. This low accumulation implies prolonged periods of inactivity, which can exacerbate wear on components like suspension bushes, brake systems, and tyres through static stress and corrosion. Notably, the largest mileage jump occurred between the November 2023 and November 2024 tests, where the vehicle accumulated 6,376 miles in a year, a significant increase from the previous 6,017 miles over the prior 12 months. While this could indicate recent regular use, it also means the suspension and brakes may have endured accelerated wear during this period. The gap between tests is consistent at one year, but the lack of intermediate maintenance—such as brake fluid changes or suspension servicing—is concerning, especially given the repeated tyre and suspension faults. A prospective buyer should prioritise an immediate, thorough inspection of the suspension components, particularly the front ball joints and bushes, which have failed or shown excessive wear in multiple tests. The November 2025 failure on the near-side front ball joint is critical—this part is prone to sudden failure, leading to loss of wheel alignment or steering control. The sub-frame corrosion from November 2024 warrants closer examination, as even minor rust can compromise structural integrity over time. Brake systems also demand attention: the 2023 leak in the near-side front brake pipe, combined with the repeated tyre failures—including underinflation—suggests potential brake fluid contamination or hydraulic issues that may not have been fully addressed. Tyres should be inspected for hidden damage, perishing, or uneven wear, as the 2023 tests revealed structural separation and cracking. Finally, the exhaust leak from November 2025 indicates potential catalytic converter or pipe damage, which could affect emissions and, if left unchecked, lead to further corrosion or performance loss.