2002 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · SN52 ABO

Structural corrosion is the primary mechanical concern for this vehicle, with a history of major failures involving the chassis and suspension mountings. While it achieved a pass on 2025-11-26, the record shows a pattern of deteriorating structural integrity, including significant corrosion at the rear axle mounting area and the inner sill floor area where the seat belt anchorage was compromised. This trend suggests that corrosion is a persistent issue across multiple prescribed areas of the body and floor, moving from general body corrosion in 2023 to specific structural failures in subsequent years. The recorded mileage of 98,800 miles is low for a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 4,117 miles per year. This usage pattern often indicates periods of inactivity or light urban use, which can contribute to the degradation of rubber components and the acceleration of corrosion in chassis areas where moisture and salt can settle. The low mileage does not offset the evidence of structural wear but provides context for the deterioration observed in the suspension and bodywork. A physical inspection should focus heavily on the underbody, specifically the sills and the rear axle mounting points, to ensure previous structural repairs were carried out to a professional standard. The presence of a distorted nearside front wheel and a severely deteriorated offside front CV boot requires immediate attention to avoid further drivetrain or steering instability. During a test drive, listen for a rhythmic humming or droning sound from the rear, which would indicate the progression of the noted play in the nearside rear wheel bearing. Further attention is required for the suspension and braking systems. The worn nearside rear trailing axle bush may manifest as a clunking sound or a feeling of instability when driving over uneven surfaces. Given the previous advisory regarding corroded brake pipes, a thorough check for surface rust or pitting on the lines is necessary. Finally, any vibration felt through the steering wheel at speed should be investigated as a symptom of the recorded wheel distortion.