2016 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · FD16 DWM

The most recent MOT test on 2026-07-06 resulted in a passing grade, though it included two advisories: front brake pads showing significant wear requiring replacement within the next 6,000 miles, and a damaged near-side rear reflector unit that must be repaired to ensure visibility compliance. Despite this passing outcome, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues, particularly with suspension components and brake wear, which have led to two failures in the past two years. The earlier failure on 2026-06-29 highlighted major defects in both near-side and offside rear suspension arm pins or bushes, indicating progressive wear that could compromise the vehicle’s handling and load-bearing integrity if not addressed promptly. While the 2025 and 2024 MOT tests were clean, the intervening failures suggest that the suspension and braking systems have been under sustained stress, warranting careful attention to prevent further deterioration. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 141,158 miles at the time of this assessment represents a high annual usage rate of approximately 14,116 miles per year, which is notably elevated for a ten-year-old Ford Fiesta. Such mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on critical components such as suspension bushes, brake pads, tyres, and drivetrain elements, as evidenced by the MOT history. The absence of significant mileage gaps implies either heavy, frequent use or prolonged periods of inactivity that have not been properly serviced, potentially leading to issues like standing corrosion in suspension components or brake systems, or fluid degradation from stagnation. The rapid mileage build-up also raises concerns about the vehicle’s operational efficiency, as higher mileage often correlates with increased stress on mechanical systems, particularly if the vehicle has been driven in harsh conditions or without regular maintenance. Given the recurring suspension and brake advisories, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the rear suspension arms, focusing on the near-side and offside components for signs of excessive play, cracks, or binding. Listen for unusual noises during a test drive, particularly clunking or rattling from the rear suspension when driving over bumps, which may indicate worn bushes or pins. The front brakes should be checked for uneven wear patterns, which could signal misalignment or warping, and inspect the brake pads for consistent thickness—if they are below 1.5mm, replacement is strongly advised. Additionally, verify that the near-side rear reflector has been repaired to meet legal standards, as a damaged unit can impair visibility and pose a risk. For the registration plate lamp and headlamp alignment issues noted in previous MOTs, ensure these are corrected to avoid further compliance failures. In terms of practical checks for a vehicle of this age and mileage, examine the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can weaken the rubber and reduce safety over time. Check the tyre tread depth for legal compliance (minimum 1.6mm) and look for uneven wear, which may indicate alignment or suspension issues. Inspect the brake discs for corrosion, warping, or binding calipers, as standing for prolonged periods can cause rust and reduced braking performance. The 12V battery should be tested for voltage and overall health, as older vehicles are more susceptible to failure from disuse or age-related degradation. Fluid levels, particularly the brake fluid, should be checked for contamination or degradation, as brake fluid absorbs moisture over time and can compromise braking efficiency. Finally, verify that the service book has been updated, particularly for fluid changes and filter replacements, as a ten-year-old vehicle with high mileage may require time-based servicing such as coolant flushes or transmission fluid changes, even if not directly linked to the current mileage.