2010 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Diesel · ST10 VSP

The 2010 Ford Fiesta presents an unusually sparse official MOT history, with only two passed tests and two failed tests recorded over the most recent years and zero advisories of any kind on file. Both failures, on 2023-05-25 and 2022-05-27, carry no defect entries whatsoever, which is highly atypical and warrants careful attention. A genuine failed MOT should always have at least one defect recorded, whether a major, dangerous, or minor item, so the absence of any defects on these failed entries raises a serious question about the integrity or completeness of the DVSA record. The most recent test on 2023-06-05 passed clean with no advisories, but given the unexplained failures immediately preceding each pass within days, the documented history offers no real mechanical reassurance and cannot be treated as evidence of sound roadworthiness. With 153,381 miles recorded over approximately 16 years, this Fiesta shows an annual accumulation rate of around 9,586 miles, which sits broadly in line with typical usage for a vehicle of its age and class. There are notable gaps in the MOT testing record, with no recorded tests visible between 2022 and the vehicle's earlier history, which means large portions of its life and wear cycle remain undocumented. Higher-mileage Fiesta examples of this generation commonly exhibit accelerated wear on suspension components, clutch assemblies, brake systems, and minor oil leaks from the engine and transmission seals. The combination of well above-average accumulated mileage and a patchy inspection record means any prospective buyer must assume underlying wear that has not been formally captured in the MOT data. For a physical inspection, particular attention should be paid to the suspension, as this generation of Fiesta is known for wear in the front wishbones, anti-roll bar bushes, and rear axle beam bushes, all of which can produce knocking or clonking noises over uneven surfaces and vague, wandering steering behaviour. The brake system should be examined for binding calipers, worn discs and pads, and any corrosion of brake pipes or flexible hoses, with a test drive ideally including several firm stops from higher speeds to check for pulling, judder, or a soft pedal. The clutch should be evaluated for slip on inclines or under hard acceleration, and the gearbox for any synchro wear or noisy selection, particularly when cold. Under the bonnet, look for oil misting around the cam cover and leaks from the sump, while underneath the vehicle, inspect the exhaust system for corrosion at the joints and mounting points, the rear beam for surface corrosion, and the subframe mounting areas for any structural concerns. On the road, listen specifically for suspension clonks or creaks over speed humps and rougher tarmac, which would suggest worn bushes or drop links, and feel for any knocking through the steering wheel when traversing uneven surfaces. Pay close attention to the steering for any vagueness, drift, or uneven self-centring, as worn Fiesta front suspension components frequently manifest as imprecise handling. Monitor the engine for any hesitation, misfire, or irregular idle, and verify that the cooling fan operates correctly, as older Fiestas with high mileage often suffer from cooling system degradation. Given the unexplained MOT failure entries, it is strongly advisable to commission an independent pre-purchase inspection from a qualified garage, as the official record provides insufficient basis to judge the mechanical condition of this particular vehicle with confidence.