2017 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · WN67 WDK

The 2017 Ford Fiesta passed its most recent MOT on 26 January 2026, recording a single advisory relating to perishing on a front tyre. Reviewing the full history, the vehicle has passed every annual test without any failures or dangerous defects since first MOT presentation in 2020, which demonstrates a stable and consistent maintenance trend overall. However, the 2025 advisory list was notably fuller than usual, flagging deteriorating front number plates, insecure front headlamp units, perishing rear tyres, and pitting on both rear brake discs, with these issues either resolved through replacement or carried forward into the 2026 test as the renewed front tyre advisory. The fact that only the front tyre perishing was flagged in 2026 suggests the owner has addressed the majority of prior advisories, although a careful buyer should verify that the rear brake discs and insecure headlamps were properly rectified. With a recorded mileage of 39,211 miles across nine years, this Fiesta averages approximately 4,357 miles per year, which is notably below the typical annual mileage for a UK private vehicle of around 7,000 to 10,000 miles. Such low usage can be beneficial for major drivetrain components like the engine, clutch, and gearbox, reducing wear-related degradation, but it introduces specific age-related concerns. Long periods of standing or only short journeys can accelerate corrosion on brake discs due to surface rust and infrequent use, degrade the 12V battery through partial discharge cycles, and allow moisture to accumulate in the engine oil, particularly if the vehicle is used predominantly for cold starts. The relatively low mileage does not, however, exempt the car from calendar-based wear, and a prospective buyer should not assume that low recorded miles equate to low overall mechanical attention required. Given the age and the pattern of advisories around tyres and brake discs, particular attention should be paid during inspection to all four tyres, examining the sidewalls carefully for perishing and cracking, as the recorded 2017 dot codes indicate tyres that are now approaching nine years of age and approaching the end of their safe service life regardless of tread depth. The front tyres fitted at the 2026 test should be checked for their own age marking, as rubber deteriorates chemically with time. On a test drive, listen for any brake shudder or vibration through the steering wheel or pedal under firm braking, which would indicate rear disc warping or further deterioration beyond the pitting noted in 2025. Inspect the rear brake discs visually for lipping and a pronounced ridge at the outer edge, and confirm the calipers are sliding freely rather than binding, which is a common consequence of light use. Additionally, verify that both front headlamps are now firmly secured, and check the condition of the number plates for legibility. Beyond the advisory items, a comprehensive physical inspection should include verifying full service history with stamps corresponding to the low recorded mileage, checking the age and condition of the 12V battery using a resting voltage test or professional diagnostic, and confirming that all fluids including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and the manual or automatic transmission fluid have been changed on a time basis rather than purely mileage. Brake fluid in particular is hygroscopic and should be renewed every two to three years regardless of use. Examine the underbody and suspension components for any signs of standing corrosion, particularly on the subframe, brake lines, and exhaust mounting points, as the Yorkshire climate accelerates surface oxidation on lightly used vehicles. Inspect the coil springs, suspension bushes, and anti-roll bar drop links for any perishing or cracking from age, and check the exhaust system for internal corrosion at the silencer and rear box. Finally, given that the rear tyres were already showing perishing at the 2025 test, ensure the spare wheel and tyre inflation kit are present and serviceable.