2006 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · WN06 XJB

The most recent MOT, dated 3 September 2021, was a pass with only two advisory notes concerning light‑lens deposits on the nearside and offside front headlamps. Earlier tests show a mixed picture: a dangerous wheel‑bearing failure and a serious engine‑MIL fault in 2019, a series of advisory items in 2018 and 2017, and a dangerous tyre‑ply exposure failure in 2017. The progression from outright failures to a clean pass, albeit with minor lamp advisories, indicates that the vehicle’s maintenance record has been moving in a stabilising direction, though the recurrence of the engine‑MIL advisory suggests that the underlying electronic fault may not have been fully resolved. At 108 391 miles on a 2006 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 5 400 miles, which is well below the typical UK average of about 10 000 miles per year. Such low utilisation often points to periods of limited use or extended storage rather than heavy wear, meaning that many wear items may still have considerable life left. However, long periods of standing can accelerate rubber perishing, battery sulphation and corrosion of suspension bushings, so the low mileage does not automatically guarantee a pristine mechanical condition. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the wheel‑bearing and engine‑management issues that have appeared in the MOT history. The 2019 dangerous bearing failure on the nearside front wheel could re‑manifest as a growling or humming noise that changes with vehicle speed and load, or as a vague looseness in the steering. A hands‑on check for any lateral play in the wheel while the car is lifted, and a road test listening for abnormal noises, is essential. The recurring “Engine MIL inoperative” advisory indicates a fault in the electronic control system – an OBD‑II scan should be performed to identify any logged trouble codes, and the sensor circuit and emission‑related components should be inspected for wiring faults or failed modules. The 2018 advisories about front brake disc pitting and thin pads mean the brake discs should be measured for remaining thickness and inspected for scoring; any pulsation or shudder under hard braking would point to the need for disc resurfacing or replacement. The minor exhaust flex‑pipe leak noted in 2018 may produce a faint ticking at low revs and could lead to increased emissions, so the pipe should be examined for cracks or loose clamps. Finally, the headlamp lens deposits, while not a safety failure, can be cleaned or the lenses replaced to restore full illumination and avoid future compliance issues. Given the vehicle’s age, independent of the MOT record, a thorough visual and tactile inspection is advisable. Tyre sidewalls should be examined for cracking, dry rot or age‑related brittleness, as tyres older than ten years can become unsafe even with adequate tread. The under‑carriage, suspension arms, ball joints and bushings should be checked for rust, corrosion or loss of resilience, especially if the car has spent time stationary. A load test of the 12‑volt battery will reveal any loss of capacity that often accompanies long idle periods. Calendar‑based fluids – engine coolant, brake fluid, power‑steering fluid and gearbox oil – should be sampled for colour and moisture content and, where service records are absent, a full flush and replacement is prudent. Confirm that the service book shows regular oil changes, timing‑chain inspection (the 2006 Fiesta uses a chain rather than a belt) and any major service milestones. Verifying the condition of the steering rack, CV joints and rear axle bearings for leaks or play will round off a comprehensive pre‑purchase appraisal.