2008 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · W26 KEE

Persistent structural and suspension corrosion, alongside recurring drivetrain wear, defines the mechanical profile of this vehicle, which successfully passed its most recent MOT on 31 July 2026. While the car has maintained a consistent pass record, the history reveals a pattern of unresolved or recurring defects, particularly regarding the nearside front wheel bearing, which has been flagged as having slight play in every test since 2023. The cumulative nature of these advisories, specifically the ongoing reports of corrosion affecting both the suspension components and the vehicle structure, indicates a vehicle that requires close monitoring for degradation of its mounting points and chassis integrity. With a total of 102,706 miles accumulated over 18 years, the vehicle averages approximately 5,706 miles per annum, a figure that sits well below the typical usage profile for a car of this age. This low annual mileage often results in components sitting stationary for extended periods, which can exacerbate the corrosion issues noted in the MOT history, as moisture trapped in the undercarriage and within mechanical joints is not regularly dispersed by heat or movement. The history suggests that the vehicle has been subjected to light but potentially sporadic use, which does not necessarily mitigate the wear on consumables like bearings and bushings that are currently showing signs of fatigue. Prospective buyers must prioritise a physical inspection of the suspension and chassis, as the recurring advisories regarding corrosion necessitate a thorough check for flaking, structural thinning, or deep-seated rust on the subframe and suspension arms. During a test drive, listen specifically for rhythmic droning or grinding noises from the nearside front corner, which would confirm the wheel bearing play noted in the test records. Any steering vibrations or pulling to one side should be investigated immediately, as these symptoms often correlate with the reported play in the wheel bearing and the uneven tyre wear identified in the latest inspection. The ongoing reports of gearbox oil leaks and thin brake pads require a detailed check of the vehicle underside for signs of fluid migration or wetness around the transmission housing. When operating the vehicle, assess the braking performance for any signs of judder or reduced stopping power, as the pads have been flagged as thin in multiple consecutive tests. Given the age and the history of suspension-related advisories, ensure that the car tracks straight under braking and does not exhibit excessive knocking or clunking sounds when traversing uneven road surfaces, which would indicate that the suspension bushes and joints are reaching the end of their service life.