2010 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Diesel · T11 FAB

The latest MOT test for this 2010 Ford Fiesta, conducted on 2026-02-26, resulted in a passing outcome, though it included two advisories that warrant careful consideration. The overall maintenance trend over the past four years appears stable, with no failures recorded since 2022 and only minor, recurring issues—specifically related to tyre wear and exhaust integrity—that do not suggest a deterioration in the vehicle’s structural or mechanical condition. The presence of consistent advisories, however, indicates that the owner should address these promptly to prevent escalation, particularly given the vehicle’s age and the cumulative impact of these minor but persistent faults. The recorded mileage of 79,366 miles for a 16-year-old car represents a notably low annual usage rate of approximately 4,960 miles per year, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age. Such low mileage often correlates with periods of prolonged stationary use, particularly in climates prone to standing corrosion or in environments where the vehicle is not regularly driven. While low mileage can mitigate some wear on consumables like fluids and brake components, it does not negate the risks associated with standing, such as corrosion to the brake system, suspension components, and the engine’s internal lubricants, which can degrade over time due to lack of movement. The rear silencer leaks and tyre wear advisories further suggest that the vehicle has not been subjected to rigorous or aggressive driving conditions, but this also means that wear patterns may not reflect typical high-mileage usage, potentially masking underlying issues that could become critical without regular motion. To proceed with a thorough inspection, the buyer should prioritise checking the rear suspension and brake system for signs of corrosion or binding, particularly around the rear calipers, brake discs, and wheel bearings, as prolonged standing can lead to rusting and reduced braking efficiency. The rear tyres, especially the offside rear, show signs of cracking or perishing, which is a clear warning of age-related deterioration. This condition can compromise tyre integrity and pose a safety risk, so a visual inspection of the sidewall for cracks, delamination, or dry rot is essential. Additionally, the rear silencer leaks indicate a potential failure point that should be repaired to prevent exhaust fumes from entering the cabin, which is not only a health hazard but also a legal requirement under UK emissions regulations. The offside front tyre’s worn edge suggests uneven wear, which could stem from misalignment, suspension issues, or incorrect tyre pressure; a test drive should include checking for lateral vibrations or pulling to one side, as these symptoms often accompany suspension or steering misalignment. For fluid servicing, the buyer should verify the age and condition of all fluids, including the engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and differential/transmission fluid, as these can degrade significantly over time, even with low mileage. Given the vehicle’s age, the engine oil should be checked for metallic particles or a dark, tarry residue, which could indicate wear or contamination. The 12-volt battery should also be tested for voltage output and corrosion on terminals, as standing vehicles are particularly susceptible to battery failure or sulphation. Finally, the buyer should review the service history for any missing or overdue maintenance, such as valve adjustments, timing belt replacement, or suspension component checks, as these are critical for a 16-year-old car and may not have been addressed due to infrequent use. A comprehensive inspection of the exhaust system, including the catalytic converter and oxygen sensors, is also advisable, as the recurring rear silencer leaks could indicate broader exhaust component wear.