2017 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · TP02 MAP

The most recent MOT test on 8 June 2026 resulted in a Pass, but it should be noted that an earlier failure on the same date identified major defects relating to both nearside and offside front suspension arm ball joint dust covers, which had deteriorated to the point of no longer preventing the ingress of dirt. These items were presumably rectified prior to the pass certificate being issued. While the vehicle is currently roadworthy, the advisory items logged alongside both the pass and the failure are notable. These include slight wear to both rear axle swivel pins and bushes, play in the steering rack inner joint, and front brake pads noted as wearing thin. The recurring appearance of the rear axle swivel pin and bush advisories across the 2025 and 2026 tests indicates a progressive wear pattern rather than a one-off observation, and the steering rack play is a newly flagged concern that warrants close monitoring. Recorded mileage stands at 33,450 miles over a nine-year vehicle life, equating to approximately 3,717 miles annually. This is considerably below the average for a vehicle of this age and suggests either light usage or extended periods of standing between journeys. Low annual mileage of this nature carries its own mechanical implications. Components such as brake discs and calipers can suffer from corrosion or seize due to infrequent use, rubber items including tyres, suspension bushes, and drive belts are more susceptible to perishing from age rather than wear, and the 12V battery may have been compromised by standing discharged or by infrequent top-up charging. Furthermore, calendar-based servicing items such as brake fluid, coolant, and the timing belt or chain inspection schedule remain due regardless of low odometer readings. Given the recurring rear axle swivel pin and bush advisories, a prospective buyer should carry out a careful test drive paying particular attention to the rear suspension. Listen for any clonking or knocking noises over uneven surfaces, speed humps, and during cornering, as worn rear bushes can allow unwanted movement and instability under load. Inspect the front suspension ball joints for any visible cracking, splitting, or absence of the protective rubber dust cover, and check for excessive play by attempting to rock the wheel vertically and laterally with the vehicle raised if possible. The steering rack inner joint play should also be evaluated by a technician, as worsening play could indicate internal wear that may ultimately require rack replacement. On the test drive, observe the steering for any vagueness, knocking, or inconsistent self-centring. Brake-related advisories have been a consistent theme throughout the MOT history, with thin pads flagged in 2024, 2025, and 2026, lipped front discs noted in 2024, and brake fluctuations recorded on both front offside and rear nearside. The buyer should expect brake pads to require replacement imminently and should budget for front disc refurbishment or replacement if the lipping has progressed. During the test drive, listen for any brake squeal or grinding, feel for vibration or shudder through the pedal under firm application, and check for the vehicle pulling to one side which could indicate a binding caliper, particularly relevant given the low mileage. Beyond the flagged items, the 2021 and 2022 advisories regarding front tyre perishing should serve as a reminder that even with low mileage, age-related rubber degradation remains a concern. All four tyres should be closely inspected for sidewall cracking, tread depth, and manufacture date, the 12V battery tested for healthy state of charge, and full service history verified to confirm time-based fluid changes have been completed in accordance with manufacturer schedules.