2010 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · YP10 HWN

The vehicle's most recent MOT status shows a pass on 16 September 2025 at 60,411 miles, but the mechanical trend indicates worsening deterioration in specific areas. While the car passed the latest test, the record shows a significant failure just twelve days prior on 4 September 2025. This recent failure highlighted multiple issues including excessive wear on axle swivel pins and bushes, a defective front lower gearbox mounting, and play in the nearside front steering rack inner joints. The transition from a major exhaust leak failure in September 2024 to these more complex suspension and steering component issues suggests that mechanical wear is accelerating despite the low annual mileage. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 2010 vehicle, averaging approximately 3,776 miles per year. The data shows a consistent upward trend from 51,643 miles in September 2023 to 60,411 miles in September 2025. This slow accumulation of mileage often implies the vehicle spends long periods stationary, which can lead to the degradation of rubber components such as bushes, tyres, and mounting systems. The recurring advisory for a nearside front tyre worn close to the legal limit in both 2023 and 2025 suggests a pattern of neglecting basic consumable maintenance. A prospective buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the front-end steering and suspension assembly. The repeated flagging of steering rack inner joint play and axle bush wear indicates that these components may require imminent replacement. The tester also identified a cracking front lower gearbox mounting in 2025, which warrants a close check for excessive engine movement or vibration. Given the 2025 failure regarding exhaust emissions and gas leaks, the integrity of the exhaust system and the condition of the lambda sensor should be verified to ensure the engine is running efficiently. Finally, check the condition of the tyres and the security of the heatshield, both of which appeared as defects or advisories in the most recent testing cycle. While the 2024 test was clean, the subsequent cluster of mechanical faults in 2025 suggests that the vehicle is entering a phase where age-related rubber and joint degradation will become more frequent. Focus on any signs of fluid leaks around the gearbox mounting and ensure the steering feels tight and free from play.