2015 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · WN15 DFU

The latest MOT test on 17 March 2026 resulted in a pass, though it followed a failure for a non-functional headlamp. The overall maintenance trend has remained stable for several years, characterized by a series of clean passes between 2021 and 2024. However, the most recent two years indicate a slight decline in condition, with the emergence of failures related to the steering rack and current advisories regarding the suspension. This suggests the vehicle is now entering a phase where age-related degradation of rubber seals and hydraulic components is becoming more evident. The recorded mileage of 69,151 miles over approximately eleven years reflects an average annual usage of roughly 6,286 miles. This is considered typical for a vehicle of this age and suggests a balanced usage profile. It avoids the excessive wear associated with high-mileage commuting while also avoiding the specific risks of prolonged standing, such as seized brake calipers or perished seals due to inactivity. Mechanically, the drivetrain should be in a healthy state, although typical wear on consumables and suspension bushings is expected at this stage of the vehicle's life. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the current advisories regarding light oil misting on both rear shock absorbers. This is a clear sign that the internal hydraulic seals are beginning to fail, which will eventually lead to a total loss of damping efficiency and a potential MOT failure. During a test drive, listen for clunking or knocking sounds from the rear axle over uneven road surfaces and observe if the rear of the chassis exhibits excessive oscillation or bouncing after hitting a bump. Furthermore, the previous failure concerning the nearside front steering rack gaiter should be physically inspected to ensure the replacement part is correctly fitted and that no grease is leaking, as a compromised gaiter allows road grit to destroy the steering rack internals. Beyond the recorded defects, a comprehensive physical inspection is required to address age-related wear. Check the tyre sidewalls for hairline cracking or perishing, as rubber degrades over time regardless of the remaining tread depth. Inspect the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion and ensure there is no binding in the calipers. Finally, the service history must be scrutinized to confirm that calendar-based maintenance, such as engine oil and filter changes, has been performed consistently, as fluid degradation occurs over time even when the annual mileage remains relatively low.