2017 Ford Fiesta 1.5L Diesel · YP17 KTJ

The 2017 Ford Fiesta has maintained a stable MOT record with only minor, non-major defects over the past two years, though the most recent test on 2025-07-21—just over a year ago—still flagged slight play in the offside front suspension arm ball joint (5.3.4 (a) (i)). This indicates a persistent, albeit low-severity, issue that has not escalated into a major failure, though it suggests the suspension components may be approaching their serviceable lifespan. The absence of major advisories or structural faults in the latest test is reassuring, but the ball joint defect implies the previous owner may have deferred addressing suspension wear, a common pattern where minor issues are overlooked until they become more costly. The vehicle’s mileage progression of 42,878 miles at the latest test reflects unusually light usage for its age, averaging just 4,764 miles annually. This suggests either infrequent driving or prolonged periods of inactivity, which can accelerate wear on fluid-sealed components like suspension bushes and brake calipers. Notably, there is a 13-month gap between the 2023 and 2024 tests, during which the mileage increased by 5,254 miles—a moderate but steady accumulation. The 2024 test itself recorded the first defect in this history, with the offside front tyre worn to 4mm and unevenly abraded, indicating either neglect or an underlying alignment issue. Failing twice on tyre tread in such a short span suggests basic upkeep was inconsistent, though this is not an immediate structural concern. A buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the offside front suspension, particularly the ball joint and adjacent bushes, as the persistent defect could indicate broader wear in the suspension geometry. The front tyres should be checked for uneven wear patterns, which may point to misalignment or worn steering components. Given the light mileage, fluid levels—brake hydraulic fluid, power steering, and differential oil—should be verified, as prolonged inactivity can lead to degradation or contamination. Corrosion around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe should also be examined, as static conditions exacerbate rust development. While the MOT history shows no major failures, these areas warrant close scrutiny to avoid unexpected repairs.