2017 Ford Fiesta 1.5L Diesel · SL67 FFP

The most recent DVSA examination on 15 November 2025 resulted in a PASS, albeit with an advisory noting that the offside front tyre was worn close to the legal limit and worn on edge. Looking back across the recorded MOT history, the vehicle has maintained an overall pass status since a single dangerous failure in November 2022, which was solely related to nearside front tyre tread depth falling below the statutory 1.6mm minimum. The recurring theme across the 2023, 2024, and 2025 tests is a consistent pattern of front tyre wear advisories, suggesting a stable but ongoing maintenance concern rather than an improving trend. Aside from a minor nearside front wing and bumper damage advisory in 2023, no structural, braking, suspension, or emissions advisories have been recorded, indicating that the fundamental mechanical components remain in serviceable condition. With 73,936 miles recorded over approximately 9 years, this Fiesta averages around 8,215 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age and segment. There are no significant gaps in the MOT history that would suggest prolonged standing periods, and the mileage progression between tests appears consistent and steady rather than abruptly accumulated. This kind of regular usage is mechanically beneficial, as it tends to keep drivetrain components, brakes, and the 12V battery in active service, reducing the risk of seized calipers, dried seals, or flat-spotted tyres. That said, a nine-year-old Ford Fiesta approaching 74,000 miles will naturally be approaching the latter stages of certain consumables, including brake discs and pads, clutch wear if manual, and potentially the timing belt service interval depending on variant. The persistent front tyre wear pattern across three consecutive MOTs warrants specific attention. Edge wear on front tyres typically points to either incorrect wheel alignment, worn suspension components such as track rod ends or wishbone bushes, or prolonged driving on under-inflated tyres. During a test drive, listen for any knocking or clonking from the front suspension over speed humps or uneven surfaces, and check for vague or wandering steering response. Uneven inner or outer shoulder wear that has been allowed to develop over multiple advisory cycles could also indicate neglected geometry settings, so a four-wheel alignment check should be budgeted for, alongside replacement of all four tyres if the existing set has been in service for any length of time. Given the vehicle's age, even with average mileage, several calendar-driven items should be physically inspected before purchase. Examine the sidewalls of all tyres closely for perishing or cracking caused by age-related rubber degradation, particularly on a rear axle where tyres may have been fitted for some years. Inspect the brake discs for any lipping or surface corrosion indicative of binding calipers, and verify that the handbrake holds effectively on an incline. Check the date code on the 12V battery and confirm it has been replaced within the last four to five years, as a weak battery can cause erratic idling and electrical gremlins. Under the bonnet, inspect coolant and brake fluid reservoirs for clarity and correct levels, as both fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. Finally, confirm that the service book has been stamped at appropriate intervals and request evidence of the cambelt or timing chain service having been carried out according to Ford's schedule, as this is a critical interval item on higher-mileage examples.