2015 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · SC65 VNH

The most recent MOT test results reflect a mixed but ultimately concerning maintenance trajectory for this 2015 Ford Fiesta. The vehicle passed its last two MOTs in October 2023 and October 2024, with no major defects recorded, but the October 2025 test revealed a critical failure—an offside rear coil spring fracture—alongside persistent advisories related to child seat obstructions, which suggest either ongoing neglect or improper modifications. The earlier October 2025 failure for the fog lamp lens defect, while not directly mechanical, underscores a pattern of superficial issues that could indicate broader attention to detail. The 2022 MOT’s advisories on front tyre wear near legal limits and thin brake pads, though not failures, highlight wear progression that should not be ignored, particularly given the vehicle’s age and the fact that the 2020 test showed no defects before a subsequent failure for the coil spring. This history does not suggest a stable maintenance routine; rather, it points to a need for urgent attention to the structural integrity of the suspension system, particularly the rear coil spring, which is a high-risk component prone to catastrophic failure if neglected. The recorded mileage of 43,704 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 11 years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of around 3,973 miles per year, which is unusually low for a car of this age. Such low mileage can result from prolonged periods of inactivity, particularly if the vehicle has been stored in a non-operational state, leading to potential issues such as corrosion from standing, fluid degradation from lack of circulation, and wear from static loads. The suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components may have experienced accelerated wear due to prolonged standing, especially if the vehicle was left exposed to the elements or without proper maintenance. For example, brake discs and pads can corrode or bind if not regularly operated, while fluids like brake fluid and differential oil can degrade over time without use. Additionally, tyre wear patterns could be skewed by static positioning, potentially leading to uneven wear or sidewall damage from prolonged stress. The absence of higher mileage accumulation suggests that the vehicle may not have been subjected to the same levels of mechanical stress as a car with greater annual usage, but this does not absolve the buyer from thorough inspection for age-related degradation. Given the MOT history and the vehicle’s age and mileage, the prospective buyer should conduct a meticulous physical examination to address both mechanical and structural concerns. The most urgent priority is the rear coil spring, which failed in 2020 and was again identified as defective in 2025. This component is critical to the vehicle’s stability and safety, and its failure could lead to severe suspension failure or even rollover if not replaced. On a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the rear suspension, particularly when the vehicle is driven over bumps or when the suspension is fully compressed. Visually inspect the coil spring for any signs of further deterioration, such as additional fractures, rust, or deformation, and ensure the shock absorber is functioning correctly by checking for uneven ride height or excessive travel. The offside rear fog lamp failure suggests a need to verify the lamp’s functionality and ensure no related wiring or bulb issues exist, as poor visibility is a safety hazard. Beyond the coil spring, the advisories from the 2022 MOT—front tyre wear near legal limits and thin brake pads—indicate that the vehicle’s braking system and tyres require immediate attention. Brake pads wearing thin can lead to reduced stopping power, increased heat generation, and potential damage to brake discs if not addressed promptly. On a test drive, monitor for brake shudder, pulsation, or uneven braking response, which may indicate warped discs or internal brake pad issues. Inspect the brake discs for signs of corrosion, grooving, or binding, particularly around the edges where standing corrosion is most likely to occur. The front tyres should be checked for tread depth, sidewall condition, and signs of uneven wear, which could point to alignment or suspension issues. Given the low mileage, the tyres may also exhibit signs of age-related perishing, such as cracking or flaking, which can compromise their structural integrity and safety. Additionally, the child seat advisories suggest that any modifications to the rear seats may have obstructed the MOT inspector’s ability to fully assess the vehicle’s compliance with safety standards, so ensure that any aftermarket modifications do not compromise the vehicle’s structural integrity or safety features. Finally, since the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, check for signs of corrosion on the undercarriage, especially around the wheel arches, exhaust system, and suspension components. Inspect the 12V battery for signs of weakness or corrosion, and verify that all fluids—including brake fluid, coolant, and differential oil—are at appropriate levels and free from contamination, as stagnant fluids can degrade over time. A comprehensive service history check, if available, would also provide valuable context on whether the vehicle has undergone routine maintenance such as oil changes, timing belt replacement, and suspension servicing.