2015 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · YR65 CXM

The most recent MOT inspection on 16 March 2026 resulted in a pass with no recorded defects, indicating that the immediate mechanical issues identified in previous years have been addressed. The overall maintenance trend shows a period of instability between 2024 and 2025, characterized by failures regarding lighting and suspension components, but the vehicle has since returned to a clean status. While the latest result is positive, the history of recurring advisories suggests that certain components have been subject to gradual degradation rather than sudden failure, necessitating a cautious approach to the current mechanical state. The vehicle has covered 35,213 miles over its eleven-year lifespan, which equates to an average annual usage of approximately 3,200 miles. This is significantly lower than the UK national average and classifies this as a low-mileage vehicle. While low mileage generally implies less wear on the drivetrain, engine internals, and braking surfaces, it carries specific risks associated with infrequent use. Vehicles that spend long periods stationary are prone to moisture accumulation in the exhaust system, fluid degradation, and the seizing of mechanical components such as brake calipers or suspension bushes due to lack of regular movement and heat cycles. A significant point of concern in the recent history is the persistent advisory regarding the offside rear tyre, which has shown signs of cracking, perishing, and a cut across multiple inspection cycles from 2023 through 2025. Although the 2026 test was clean, you must physically inspect all four tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which is a common symptom of age-related rubber degradation in low-use vehicles. During your test drive, listen for any rhythmic thumping or uneven vibrations that might indicate irregular tyre wear or internal structural damage. Furthermore, the previous failure of a nearside rear coil spring suggests that the suspension has been under stress; you should check for any clunking or knocking noises when driving over speed bumps or uneven road surfaces, as this could indicate further wear in the suspension bushes or mounting points. Given the low annual mileage, you should pay close attention to time-based maintenance rather than just mileage-based wear. Check the service history to ensure that engine oil and coolant have been changed according to the manufacturer's calendar intervals, as fluids can become acidic or lose their protective properties over time regardless of distance driven. Inspect the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion or pitting, which often occurs when a car is parked for extended periods. Additionally, verify the health of the 12V battery, as low-use vehicles frequently suffer from discharge or reduced capacity. Finally, ensure that all exterior lighting, specifically the rear stop lamps that caused a previous failure, is fully operational and that the electrical connections appear secure and free from corrosion.