2022 Ford Puma ST-Line X Mhev 1.0L Petrol · WN22 XFC

The most recent DVSA test on 1 April 2025 resulted in a pass, which is reassuring for a prospective buyer; however, the advisories recorded alongside that pass warrant close attention. A front number plate damage advisory is largely cosmetic and administrative, but a steering component knock detected at the steering wheel is a more serious concern, as it suggests wear within the steering column, intermediate shaft, or rack mounting and can be indicative of deterioration that may progress to MOT failure at the next test. The advisory concerning the offside front tyre being worn close to the legal limit on its edge points to either an alignment issue, suspension geometry wear, or uneven camber distribution, all of which should be investigated before purchase. With only a single test on file showing this pattern, the maintenance trend cannot be firmly classified as worsening, but the combination of steering and tyre wear advisories suggests the vehicle has begun to develop wear-related concerns that may accelerate if not addressed promptly. The recorded mileage of 19,480 miles across approximately four years equates to an annual usage of around 4,870 miles, which is notably low for the vehicle's age and class. This low utilisation rate implies that the car has likely spent extended periods standing or used predominantly for short urban journeys, conditions that carry their own mechanical consequences distinct from those associated with high mileage. Vehicles with low annual mileage frequently suffer from brake disc corrosion due to infrequent use and moisture exposure, leading to surface pitting, brake shudder on application, and potential binding of caliper pistons that may cause uneven pad wear. Coolant, brake fluid, and transmission oil degrade on a calendar basis regardless of distance covered, and standing periods accelerate 12V battery sulphation, tyre sidewall perishing, and deterioration of rubber suspension bushes and gaiters owing to UV exposure and lack of mechanical cycling. Given the steering knock advisory recorded, a thorough physical inspection should focus on the steering system before purchase. With the engine running and the vehicle stationary, the tester should rotate the steering wheel fully lock to lock and listen for any clonking, clicking, or grating noises; any recurrence of the recorded knock would confirm that the issue has not been rectified. On a test drive, particular attention should be paid to straight-line stability, as a wandering steering sensation or uneven self-centring may indicate worn track rod ends, drop links, or top mounts. Additionally, the front suspension should be examined for play in the anti-roll bar linkages and condition of the strut bearings, as these are common failure points on the Puma platform. Regarding the tyre wear advisory, the offside front tyre should be measured for remaining tread depth and inspected for uneven shoulder wear, which would suggest a camber or tracking problem requiring four-wheel alignment. A test drive over uneven road surfaces should be conducted to detect any suspension clonks, knocking from worn bushes, or excessive vertical body movement indicative of weakened coil springs. Beyond the recorded advisories, age-appropriate checks remain essential given the low mileage profile; the 12V battery should be load-tested, brake discs examined for lipping and corrosion, all fluid levels and their service dates verified, and the underside inspected for any oil or coolant seepage from ageing gaskets and seals. Tyre sidewalls should be carefully examined for cracking and perishing consistent with age rather than use, and the exhaust system checked for external corrosion at mounting points and joints, which commonly deteriorates on vehicles subjected to long standing periods in damp conditions.