2016 Ford Fiesta 1.5L Diesel · FD65 WVT

The most recent MOT test results for the 2016 Ford Fiesta reveal a mixed but concerning trend in its roadworthiness. The vehicle passed the September 2025 MOT with no major defects, yet the preceding tests show a pattern of recurring issues that warrant careful scrutiny. The 2024 and 2022 MOTs were clean, suggesting a brief period of stability, but the 2023 and 2026 tests highlight persistent problems—particularly in the suspension, exhaust system, and tyre condition. The 2026 MOT failure for a worn-offside front suspension arm ball joint and the 2025 failure for excessive wear in the same component indicate a failure to address critical mechanical wear before it escalated. The presence of multiple advisories, such as exhaust corrosion and minor tyre wear close to legal limits, further suggests that the vehicle has either been driven under heavy or aggressive conditions or has not received timely maintenance to mitigate wear progression. The recorded mileage of 177,040 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents an exceptionally high annual mileage of around 17,704 miles, which is far above the average for its class. Such usage levels typically accelerate wear on consumables like brakes, tyres, and suspension components, as well as drivetrain elements such as the transmission and exhaust system. The absence of significant mileage gaps—particularly given the vehicle’s age—implies either prolonged periods of heavy or continuous use, or a lack of regular maintenance to account for wear. This pattern is particularly concerning for suspension and drivetrain components, which are prone to premature failure under high-mileage conditions. The offside rear seatbelt webbing damage and rear number plate delamination from the 2021 MOT also suggest prolonged exposure to environmental elements, potentially exacerbating structural and interior wear over time. For the prospective buyer, this Ford Fiesta presents several critical areas to inspect and address before purchase. The offside front suspension arm ball joint failure in 2025 and the subsequent advisory of slight play in the nearside track rod end in 2025 indicate that the suspension system is under significant stress. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, particularly when cornering or over bumps, as these could signal further wear in the ball joints or track rod ends. Inspect the suspension for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may reveal misalignment caused by worn components. The exhaust system advisories from multiple MOTs suggest corrosion or structural deterioration, which could lead to emissions failures or catastrophic failure if ignored. Check for oil leaks around the exhaust manifold or catalytic converter, and listen for a rough idle or backpressure symptoms such as a lack of power or excessive smoke from the exhaust during acceleration. Additionally, the tyre advisories from the 2023 MOT—including a minor cut and wear close to the legal limit—highlight the need for immediate attention. Tyres worn to the edge or with sidewall damage can compromise handling and safety, especially at higher speeds. Replace the tyres immediately to avoid further degradation of the vehicle’s roadworthiness and to prevent potential failure under load. The high annual mileage also necessitates a thorough inspection of the braking system, as excessive wear on pads, discs, or calipers is likely. Check for binding calipers, which may indicate corrosion or seized components, and listen for grinding noises when applying the brakes. Inspect the brake discs for uneven wear or corrosion, and verify that the brake fluid is clean and at the correct level, as fluid degradation over time can lead to reduced braking performance. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and usage profile, consider a comprehensive service history check to confirm that fluid changes—particularly in the coolant, oil, and differential—have been performed on a calendar-based schedule rather than mileage-dependent intervals. A 12V battery health test is also advisable, as prolonged use can lead to weakened starting performance or electrical system failures.