2015 Ford Ecosport 1.0L Petrol · ST65 LPC

The most recent MOT test on 24 June 2026 was recorded as a PASS, although the vehicle had failed the previous day on 23 June 2026 under a combination of major and dangerous defects. The earlier failure items included a brake lever with insufficient reserve travel, a nearside front tyre whose tread depth had fallen below the legal 1.6 mm requirement (classified as dangerous), excessive play in the nearside front wheel bearing, and advisories for both front tyres being worn on edge. The pass on the following day suggests these items were rectified, but a prospective buyer should obtain documentary evidence of the work carried out, particularly the replacement of the tyre and the brake lever adjustment or repair. Looking at the broader trend, the vehicle has accumulated a notable number of advisories and major defects in recent years, and the 2025 failure on rear axle swivel pins and bushes, both rear coil springs, and a nearside front track rod end ball joint indicates serious mechanical deterioration across the suspension and steering systems. This is not a record demonstrating stable maintenance; rather, it shows progressive wear that culminated in multiple major failures. The recorded mileage of 78,695 miles over an 11-year lifespan equates to an annual average of roughly 7,150 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age. There are no extended gaps in the MOT testing timeline that would suggest prolonged periods off the road, and the mileage accumulation appears reasonably consistent. This level of use means that while the engine and drivetrain should have been exercised sufficiently to avoid the worst effects of standing corrosion, the wear-related defects observed are consistent with the cumulative effect of moderate-to-high mileage on suspension and steering consumables. The advisories relating to tyre edge wear and steering rack inner joint play appearing as early as 2024 further support the conclusion that chassis components have been working hard throughout the vehicle's service life. Given the recurring pattern of rear coil spring corrosion advisories from 2021 onwards, culminating in both rear springs being classified as seriously weakened at the 2025 test, the prospective buyer should be alert to symptoms of spring failure on a test drive. Listen for clonking or knocking from the rear suspension over uneven surfaces, observe whether the vehicle sits level when unladen, and inspect the springs visually for cracks, heavy surface rust, or signs of recent replacement. The rear axle swivel pin and bush wear noted in 2025 is another area requiring attention; symptoms include imprecise rear handling, wandering at speed, or a vague feeling through the steering wheel over bumps. The nearside front track rod end ball joint, which was a major failure in 2025, should be rechecked by rocking the wheel and listening for clunks during lock-to-lock manoeuvres. The steering rack inner joint advisories from 2024 also warrant attention, as these can develop into more serious play if left unaddressed, potentially leading to vague steering response or uneven front tyre wear. The front tyre edge wear pattern, recorded as an advisory in 2024, 2025, and again at the 2026 test, is consistent with incorrect wheel alignment, worn suspension components, or simply the tyres being of an unsuitable profile. The buyer should check the current alignment settings and inspect the front tyres closely for feathered edges. The 2026 advisories suggest the tyres were replaced after the dangerous failure, but confirmation should be sought. The nearside front wheel bearing play that triggered the recent failure is another wear item that should be rechecked, as symptoms include a humming or growling noise that changes with vehicle speed, or steering wander. Given the vehicle's age and mileage, the buyer should also verify the condition of brake discs, as binding calipers and surface corrosion are common at this stage, and confirm that brake fluid, coolant, and the 12V battery have been serviced within their recommended intervals, as time-based degradation of these fluids is likely given the calendar age of the car.