2002 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Petrol · YL02 OJA

The most recent MOT, dated 28 August 2025 at 116,656 miles, passed, but only after an initial failure on the same day at 116,655 miles. That failure flagged an excessively worn nearside front suspension arm pin or bush and a parking brake below efficiency requirements, both of which were rectified before the retest. The pass is recent relative to today, yet the record reveals a vehicle that has required repeated intervention on fundamental chassis and braking components. The maintenance trend is one of chronic deterioration followed by reactive repair rather than consistent preventative upkeep. At roughly 116,656 miles over 24 years, the annual average sits at approximately 4,861 miles, which is low for its age. The mileage progression is tight: 114,581 miles in March 2023, 114,608 and 114,618 miles in August 2024, then 116,655 and 116,655 miles in August 2025. That jump of roughly 2,000 miles between August 2024 and August 2025 represents a noticeable increase after what appears to have been very light use or periods of standing. Sparse earlier records make it difficult to confirm long-term consistency, but the recent spike suggests either a change in ownership or a vehicle that has been sitting unused. The 2023 failure at 114,581 miles was severe. The tester recorded excessive corrosion to suspension mounting points on all four corners, the floor pan, chassis rails, and both front and rear seat belt anchorage zones, all described as significantly reducing structural strength. Brake hoses were excessively damaged, a rear brake cable was insecure, and suspension arm bushes were worn. By August 2024 at 114,608 miles, the nearside rear chassis structure again failed for excessive corrosion within 30cm of a body mounting, and both front brake hoses were excessively chafed, fouling on the shock absorbers. The pattern is clear: structural corrosion around suspension mountings and floor pan areas has been a recurring theme, not a one-off. A buyer should inspect the underside in person with a torch and a screwdriver if possible. Probe the inner sills, chassis rails, and suspension mounting points for hidden corrosion, especially around the rear axle and floor pan where seat belt anchorage integrity was previously compromised. Check the condition of all flexible brake hoses for chafing and perishing, and verify that the parking brake holds firmly on a slope. Examine the front suspension arm bushes and top strut mounts, as wear and movement have been flagged in the most recent tests. The exhaust has been repeatedly noted as corroded, so check for gas leaks and structural weakness. Sill covers fitted during multiple tests may be concealing corrosion, so consider having them removed for a proper inspection.