2016 Ford Fiesta 1.5L Diesel · EX66 WWF

The latest MOT test conducted on the 2016 Ford Fiesta on 2026-05-01 resulted in a clean pass with no recorded defects, marking a positive turnaround from the previous failures. While the vehicle’s MOT history shows a pattern of recurring issues—particularly with suspension components, tyre wear, and minor lighting faults—there is a notable improvement in recent tests, with the 2024 and 2026 MOTs being entirely free of failures. The advisory items from 2025, such as tyre wear close to legal limits and minor cuts, suggest ongoing but manageable wear patterns, whereas the 2024 failures—particularly the excessive wear in the rear suspension arms—indicate a critical area requiring attention before they escalate into more severe structural or alignment issues. The overall maintenance trend appears to be stabilising, but the buyer should remain vigilant, especially regarding suspension integrity and tyre condition, as these are recurring concerns that could evolve into costly repairs if neglected. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 101,935 miles for a 2016 model represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 10,194 miles per year, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for this age group. The absence of extreme mileage spikes suggests the car has not been subjected to particularly high wear conditions, though the 10-year span between the 2022 and 2024 MOTs indicates a period of lower activity, potentially leading to minor standing-related issues such as corrosion or fluid degradation. However, the consistent mileage accumulation does imply moderate mechanical stress on consumables like tyres, brakes, and suspension components, which aligns with the recurring advisories observed in the MOT history. The buyer should be aware that prolonged periods of inactivity can exacerbate standing-related wear, particularly in the brakes and suspension, where corrosion or binding can develop if fluids or lubricants degrade over time. Given the recurring tyre wear advisories and the near-edge wear on both front tyres, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the tyre condition. Check for uneven wear patterns that could indicate misalignment, suspension issues, or incorrect tyre pressures, as well as any signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which are more prevalent in older vehicles. On a test drive, listen for any clunking noises from the front suspension, which may suggest worn suspension bushes or damaged coil springs, and monitor the vehicle’s handling for excessive body roll or uneven tyre wear. The rear suspension arm failures from the 2024 MOT highlight the need for a visual inspection of the rear suspension components, including the arms, bushings, and pins, for signs of excessive wear, corrosion, or binding. If the suspension arms are confirmed to be worn beyond repair, replacement may be necessary to prevent further damage to the subframe or alignment issues. For the 12V battery, given the vehicle’s age and the potential for prolonged periods of inactivity, a health check is essential. Corrosion around the terminals, a weak cranking torque, or difficulty starting could indicate a failing battery, particularly if the car has been left unused for extended periods. The brake system should also be scrutinised for signs of corrosion or binding, especially on the rear brakes, where the 2024 MOT noted excessive wear in the suspension arms, which can indirectly affect brake performance. Fluid checks are critical, with the brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil recommended for inspection at least every 2–3 years, or more frequently if the vehicle has been driven under high-stress conditions. Additionally, the windscreen wiper system, though not a major failure, should be tested for effective operation and washer fluid replenishment, as the 2023 and 2024 MOTs highlighted deficiencies in this area. Finally, a visual inspection of the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion, and a check of the emissions compliance—though not a direct MOT requirement—would be prudent, as older vehicles may develop catalytic converter or manifold issues over time.