2015 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · SC64 WYP

The 2015 Ford Fiesta presents a mixed roadworthiness profile characterized by recurring minor failures rather than catastrophic breakdowns. The most recent MOT on 2026-04-09 returned a clean result with no defects, indicating the vehicle is currently roadworthy, yet the historical record reveals a pattern of intermittent electrical and braking issues that recur periodically. Earlier tests in 2025, 2024, and 2023 all showed either no defects or isolated failures such as non-functional stop lamps and gradually degrading brake components, suggesting the car has not suffered from systemic damage but requires ongoing attention to its warning systems and braking system. This pattern of intermittent faults rather than continuous deterioration means the vehicle remains usable, but prospective buyers should expect that certain systems may need periodic servicing even after passing their last MOT. The recorded mileage of 82,775 miles on an eleven-year-old vehicle translates to an average annual accumulation of approximately 7,525 miles, which aligns with typical usage for a model of this age and fits within expected depreciation curves. There is no evidence of unusually rapid mileage increase or prolonged periods of idling, nor are there significant jumps in recorded distance that would indicate storage or short-trip usage patterns. The single-month interval between the 2024-04-30 failed test and the subsequent 2025-04-16 pass suggests the car may have been stored briefly between assessments, while the near-monthly spacing between other tests indicates routine maintenance intervals were followed. Given this steady usage rate, the mechanical wear observed on brakes and lights is consistent with normal ageing under regular driving conditions, though the cumulative effect of repeated minor failures warrants caution. Focused examination should prioritise three areas where the MOT history flags specific concerns. The front brake system shows progressive degradation evidenced by repeated reports of worn discs, pitted surfaces, thin brake pads, and rear axle swivel bushing wear noted in 2024-04-30 and 2024-03-20; during a test drive, pay close attention to whether the car feels vibrating or pulsating through the wheels when braking hard, and inspect the calipers for any signs of uneven wear or leakage. The front windshield wiper function, which failed in 2024-04-30, should be checked for smooth operation and adequate pressure across the glass surface, as a malfunctioning wiper can significantly impair night-time visibility. Additionally, verify that all indicator and stop lamps—including the previously failing rear and side stop lamps in 2023-03-02 and 2025-04-16—are fully operational, as faulty lighting affects safety compliance and driver confidence. Finally, the recurring child seat belt inspection advisory appearing in both 2023-03-02 and 2024-03-20 indicates that the child restraint installation may not be secure enough for proper belt routing, potentially creating a safety concern if the seat is ever used. While this does not directly affect powertrain reliability, it represents a regulatory compliance issue that should be addressed before considering the car safe for family transport. Combined with the brake and lighting history, the overall recommendation is that the vehicle is roadworthy today but carries a moderate risk profile due to the presence of unresolved minor defects. A pre-purchase inspection focusing on brake pad thickness, disc condition, wiper mechanism function, lamp operation, and child seat fitment would provide the necessary assurance that the car can be driven safely until its next mandatory MOT cycle.