2011 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · SL61 CWD

The most recent DVSA examination on 2 March 2026 resulted in a PASS, with a single advisory noting that the nearside front inner tyre is worn close to the legal limit and on its edge. Looking at the trajectory of recent tests, the maintenance trend shows some volatility rather than consistent decline. The vehicle passed cleanly in August 2021 and February 2025, but it failed on 18 February 2026 due to a non-functioning offside rear stop lamp and exhaust emission breaches for both lambda and carbon monoxide readings following the second fast idle test. A subsequent re-test two weeks later addressed those items and achieved a pass. The repeated advisories relating to nearside front tyre wear over consecutive years suggest a persistent geometry or suspension issue that has not been resolved, while the emissions failure and ball joint play advisory in 2023 indicate component wear that warrants ongoing attention. Overall, the trend is broadly stable but with recurring and emerging concerns that a buyer should not dismiss. With recorded mileage of 55,272 miles over approximately fifteen years, this Ford Fiesta has averaged around 3,685 miles annually, a notably low usage rate for a vehicle of this age. Such low annual mileage typically implies either a predominantly short-journey usage pattern or extended periods of standing between drives, both of which carry specific mechanical consequences. Short journeys prevent the engine, exhaust system and catalytic converter from reaching optimum operating temperature, encouraging moisture build-up in the oil, accelerated exhaust corrosion, and potential degradation of the lambda sensor, the latter possibly relevant given the recent emissions failure. Conversely, periods of inactivity lead to brake disc surface corrosion, potential caliper seizure due to stuck pistons, and 12V battery deterioration, all of which may not be fully evident from MOT records alone. A prospective buyer should carry out a thorough physical inspection, prioritising the areas flagged in the history. Begin with a careful examination of all four tyres, paying particular attention to the nearside front for uneven or shoulder wear, which would suggest a worn ball joint or bush consistent with the 2023 advisory, or perhaps a tracking misalignment. Check the nearside front suspension for any clunking, knocking or excessive movement over bumps, and visually inspect the lower arm bushes and ball joint rubber boots for cracking or grease loss. During a test drive, listen for suspension noise, feel for vagueness or juddering through the steering, and verify that the vehicle tracks straight without pulling. Inspect the nearside front and offside rear brake discs for lipping, pitting or scoring consistent with the 2022 advisory, and confirm the calipers release cleanly without binding by rolling the car briefly after it has been stationary. Verify operation of all stop lamps, particularly the offside rear unit which has failed twice, and check for damaged or perished wiring connectors near the tail lamp assembly. Given the calendar age and low mileage, additional checks beyond the MOT record are essential. Examine the sidewalls of all tyres for cracking, perishing or UV degradation, which often affects low-mileage vehicles more than those in regular service, and inspect the spare or inflation kit if present. Lift the bonnet and check the 12V battery for secure mounting and any signs of corrosion on the terminals; a battery older than five years is likely approaching end of life and should be load tested. Inspect all coolant, brake fluid and power steering fluid for colour and clarity, as these degrade over time irrespective of mileage, and verify that the service book contains stamps at appropriate intervals confirming timely replacement. Look beneath the vehicle for signs of fluid leaks, particularly around the exhaust lambda sensor and engine gaskets relevant to the recent emissions failure, and tap the catalytic converter and exhaust joints for corrosion rattles. Finally, ensure the auxiliary drive belt, timing chain or belt interval, and engine oil condition are within manufacturer schedules, and consider commissioning an independent compression test or diagnostic read to confirm internal engine health given the low usage profile.