2014 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · WM63 DYA

The most recent MOT on 3 July 2026 recorded a pass with no defects, indicating that the vehicle currently meets the statutory safety and emissions standards. This follows a pattern of intermittent failures in 2024 and 2025 – notably major faults on the front suspension ball joint, rear axle swivel bushes, wipers and stop lamp – but the successful test after remedial work suggests the vehicle’s condition has improved in the short term. However, the recurrence of tyre‑wear advisories across several years points to a persistent area of concern that should be monitored. At 67,143 miles on a 2014 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 5,600 mi per year, well below the typical UK usage of 8‑10 000 mi. Such low utilisation often implies long periods of inactivity, which can accelerate the ageing of rubber components, battery plates and corrosion‑prone metalwork. The modest mileage does not necessarily guarantee low wear; rather it shifts the risk profile toward calendar‑related degradation rather than wear‑related failure. When inspecting the car, pay particular attention to the front tyres – the near‑side tyre was previously recorded below the legal 1.6 mm tread depth and the off‑side tyre was close to the limit. Verify current tread depth with a gauge and examine the sidewalls for cracking, dry‑rot or bulging, especially given the vehicle’s age. Test the suspension by listening for clunks or knocks when applying the brakes and when driving over bumps; excessive play in the front ball joint or rear axle swivel bushes will manifest as vague noises or a loose feel. Confirm that both windscreen wipers clear the glass effectively, that the washer jets deliver a steady spray, and that the off‑side stop lamp illuminates correctly – any failure here may indicate lingering electrical or linkage issues that were previously flagged as major faults. Beyond the items highlighted in the MOT record, a thorough buyer’s inspection should include a visual check for rust on the wheel arches, sills and under‑body, as prolonged storage can promote corrosion. Assess the 12 V battery for voltage and cranking performance; a battery of this age may have lost capacity even with low mileage. Examine the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or uneven wear and ensure the pads are not excessively thin, as the car’s relatively low use can lead to pad glazing or rust‑induced binding. Finally, verify that the service book contains regular oil and filter changes and that time‑based fluids – coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil – have been replaced according to the manufacturer’s schedule, since these can deteriorate even when the vehicle is not driven frequently.