2012 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Diesel · YL62 PBO

Recurring issues with braking components and minor fluid leaks define the mechanical profile of this Ford Fiesta, suggesting a vehicle that is currently maintaining roadworthiness but is entering a phase of increased component wear. The most recent MOT passed on 20 February 2026, yet the inspection revealed a persistent pattern of advisories regarding pitted or scored front brake discs and fluctuating rear service brakes. This trend of braking system instability, combined with an ongoing advisory for a non-excessive oil leak, indicates that while the vehicle meets minimum legal standards, several peripheral systems are showing signs of gradual degradation that will require attention in the near future. The vehicle has covered 91,155 miles over its approximately 14-year lifespan, which equates to an average annual usage of roughly 6,511 miles. This relatively low annual mileage is consistent with typical light-duty urban or suburban use, which often places specific stresses on components such as brakes and suspension due to frequent stop-start cycles rather than high-speed motorway running. While the mileage is not excessive for the age of the car, the low frequency of use can sometimes contribute to the surface corrosion and pitting observed on the brake discs, as these components may not always reach the temperatures required to clear surface oxidation. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the braking performance and steering precision during a test drive. Given the repeated advisories for pitted brake discs and fluctuating rear brakes, you should feel for any pedal judder or pulsation when applying the brakes at various speeds, and listen for any grinding or squealing noises that might indicate the discs have reached the end of their serviceable life. The history also notes previous issues with track rod ends and anti-roll bar linkage ball joints having play; therefore, it is essential to test the steering for any vagueness or looseness and listen for clunks or knocks from the front suspension when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps. Furthermore, the presence of a long-standing advisory for an oil leak necessitates a careful inspection of the engine bay for signs of weeping around gaskets or seals. While the MOT classifies the leak as not excessive, you should check for any heavy oil accumulation or fresh drips beneath the vehicle after it has been stationary. Finally, the recent advisories regarding tyres being worn close to the legal limit on both front edges suggest that the vehicle may require immediate tyre replacement and a subsequent wheel alignment check to ensure even wear, especially given the previous history of slightly distorted road wheels.