2004 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · ST04 MDJ

The vehicle presents a stable roadworthiness status, though the record indicates a pattern of reactive rather than proactive maintenance. The most recent test in October 2021 at 74,960 miles passed with no defects recorded, suggesting the car met the minimum safety standards at that time. However, the lack of any MOT entries since late 2021 means the vehicle is currently out of test and has gone unverified nearly five years, which raises significant concerns regarding its current mechanical condition. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 22-year-old Ford, averaging approximately 3,400 miles per year. Data from September 2019 at 68,517 miles to October 2021 at 74,960 miles shows an accumulation of only 6,443 miles over two years. While low mileage reduces wear on the drivetrain and engine, long periods of inactivity often lead to the degradation of rubber components, seized seals, and brake corrosion. The significant gaps between testing suggest the vehicle may have been used sparingly or left to sit stationary for extended durations. A buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the structural integrity, specifically the sills and rear arches, as low-mileage cars of this era are prone to hidden rust when not driven regularly. The tester should check for perished suspension bushes and cracked tyres, which fail due to age rather than distance. Given the five-year lapse since the last recorded safety check, the braking hydraulic system should be examined for seized calipers or fluid contamination, and the engine should be checked for leaks that may have developed during periods of stagnation.