2016 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · HJ66 MMX

The 1.25-litre petrol Fiesta is one of the more economical small cars on the market, typically returning 40–50 mpg in real-world driving, giving an annual fuel cost of roughly £1,200–£1,500 at current UK prices for around 9,000 miles. Road tax (VED) is £190 per year for this post-2010 petrol, as the original list price exceeded the £40,000 threshold... actually, at this original price point the Fiesta falls into the £190 band typical for vehicles registered between 2001 and March 2017 with petrol engines over 1.0-litre but under 1.6-litre, so £190 annually applies. Insurance sits in group 7–8 for the 1.25, making it one of the cheapest cars to insure on the market.

Routine maintenance is inexpensive thanks to widely available parts and simple mechanics; a yearly service is typically £150–£250 at an independent garage. However, this specific vehicle will likely incur above-average costs in the short term due to the suspension ball joint replacement and fresh tyres, which together could total £400–£600. Assuming these immediate works are done, expect annual maintenance thereafter of £200–£400, including wear-and-tear items like brakes and tyres. Overall estimated annual running cost is £1,800–£2,200 including all expenses.

Start with a thorough examination of the front suspension: with the car raised or with someone rocking the steering, check both nearside and offside front lower suspension arm ball joints for any play, as this has been flagged in three of the last four MOT tests. Tap the tyres to inspect for uneven wear patterns, particularly inner-edge feathering which was noted on both front tyres in 2025; this can indicate worn suspension bushings or tracking misalignment, both worth investigating. Inspect all four wheels for cracks or perishing in the sidewalls, especially on the rear pair.

The brake discs were noted as worn in both 2024 and 2025 tests, so check the front discs visually for lipping and scoring, and feel for brake shudder under moderate deceleration. Verify the side repeater and stop lamp operation noted as failed in 2024 — simply stand behind the vehicle while someone presses the brake pedal to confirm both bulbs illuminate correctly.

For general inspection, look under the car for any oil leaks from the engine or gearbox, check the coolant level and condition, and inspect the exhaust for corrosion or blowing joints. A common Fiesta weak point at this age is the rear axle bushings and front wishbone bushes, both worth a check. Finally, ensure the engine starts cleanly from cold and idles smoothly without misfires, as the 1.25 Ti-VCT can suffer from coil pack failure around this mileage band.