2018 Ford Ecosport 1.0L Petrol · SC67 VTN

The most recent official DVSA MOT test for this 2018 Ford EcoSport was conducted on 9 October 2025, resulting in a clean pass with no advisories or defects recorded. The previous test on 2 October 2024 was also a clean pass. Taken together, the two most recent examinations demonstrate a stable and well-maintained pattern, with no recurrence of the advisory issues raised on earlier tests. This consistent absence of fresh advisories suggests that the prior tyre concerns have been remedied, likely through the fitment of new tyres, and that the vehicle has continued to meet statutory roadworthiness requirements without significant deterioration between annual inspections. Recorded mileage stands at 71,425 miles across an eight-year service life, equating to an average annual accumulation of roughly 8,928 miles. This usage rate is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and segment, indicating that the EcoSport has been driven regularly rather than left standing for extended periods. Regular use of this nature is generally beneficial to mechanical longevity, as it reduces the likelihood of issues associated with prolonged inactivity such as seized brake calipers, degraded tyre sidewalls from age-related perishing, oil seal drying, and 12-volt battery failure. Conversely, the mileage is high enough to warrant close inspection of wear-prone consumables including suspension components, brake discs and pads, and the clutch mechanism if fitted with a manual gearbox. Reviewing the historical advisories, the predominant theme is tyre condition. In March 2023, both rear tyres were flagged for sidewall cracking or perishing, the offside front tyre exhibited a superficial cut and was noted as being worn close to the legal limit at 2mm, and an offside rear stop lamp was recorded as not working at the subsequent failed test. By May 2024, sidewall perishing advisories had returned on both rear outer tyres, indicating that the rubber compounds were continuing to degrade with age despite likely replacements in the interim. Tyre sidewall perishing is a progressive condition driven by ultraviolet exposure, temperature cycles, and calendar age rather than purely by mileage, so even relatively low-wear tyres can develop cracking once they reach six to eight years of age. On a test drive, any pulling to one side under braking, vibrations through the steering wheel, or uneven tyre wear patterns should prompt immediate investigation, and the prospective buyer should verify the production date markings on any fitted tyres to ensure they are not approaching the end of their safe service life. Beyond the documented MOT history, given the vehicle's age and accumulated mileage, several additional age-appropriate inspections are strongly recommended. The brake discs should be examined for any lipping or corrosion around the outer edge, which can indicate binding calipers or prolonged light use followed by heavy braking. The condition of the suspension bushes, anti-roll bar links, and coil springs warrants a physical check for perishing, cracking, or sagging, and any clonking or knocking noises over uneven surfaces during a test drive would suggest wear in these components. Given that the service history has not been provided in these records, it is essential to verify the timing of the most recent cambelt or chain inspection, coolant and brake fluid renewal, and oil change intervals, as brake fluid is hygroscopic and degrades over time regardless of mileage. Finally, the 12-volt battery should be load-tested, as batteries beyond five years of age frequently fail without warning, particularly on vehicles fitted with stop-start systems which place additional cyclic demands on the electrical system.