2016 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · FX05 TON

The most recent MOT test on the 2016 Ford Fiesta recorded a passing outcome on 2026-05-06, with two advisories related to corrosion in the offside and nearside rear coil springs. This follows a pattern of consistent MOT results over the past two years, with only minor defects or advisories noted, suggesting a stable maintenance profile rather than a deterioration trend. The previous failure in 2021 was due to mismatched tyre sizes, which was rectified, and the subsequent MOTs have shown only minor, manageable issues—primarily wear-related advisories rather than critical failures. The absence of repeated major defects or repeated failures indicates that while the vehicle has faced some wear and minor component degradation, it has not been neglected in a way that would compromise its roadworthiness significantly. The recorded mileage of 48,611 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of around 4,861 miles per year. This is notably lower than the industry average for a car of this age, which often exceeds 10,000 miles annually, particularly in urban or mixed-use scenarios. Such low mileage can stem from light usage, long periods of stationary storage, or a preference for alternative transportation. However, low mileage alone does not guarantee pristine condition; prolonged idling or infrequent movement can accelerate corrosion, particularly in suspension components, exhaust systems, and brake assemblies, as evidenced by the repeated coil spring corrosion advisories. Additionally, standing for extended periods may lead to brake disc corrosion, caliper binding, or fluid degradation due to stagnation, which could manifest as uneven braking performance or grinding noises upon reactivation. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the suspension and braking systems, given the recurring advisories. The corroded coil springs in the rear should be visually confirmed for further deterioration, such as spring failure or excessive sagging, which could lead to handling instability or uneven tyre wear. During a test drive, listen for clunking or rattling noises from the rear suspension, particularly when cornering or over bumps, as these may indicate bush wear or spring failure. The near-legal limit wear on the front tyres and the cracked rear tyres necessitate a closer inspection of tread depth and sidewall integrity, as worn or perishing tyres increase the risk of hydroplaning or sudden blowouts. Additionally, check for any fluid leaks around the brake pipes, which were noted as corroded in previous MOTs, as this could indicate brake fluid contamination or hydraulic system failure. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should also verify the condition of the brake discs and calipers, as the advisories suggest some degree of wear or corrosion. Inspect the discs for scoring, pitting, or excessive thickness reduction, and ensure the calipers are not binding or seized, which could lead to uneven braking or brake fade. The low mileage suggests potential issues from prolonged storage, such as battery degradation or fluid stagnation, so test the 12V battery’s charge capacity and inspect the brake fluid for a dark or contaminated appearance, as this may indicate time-based degradation. Finally, check the service history for any missing or overdue scheduled services, particularly for fluid replacements (brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid), which should be renewed every two years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first, to maintain optimal performance and prevent long-term damage. A thorough visual inspection of the vehicle’s exterior for rust, particularly around wheel arches, door sills, and undercarriage, will also reveal any corrosion that may not have been flagged in previous MOTs.