2016 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · LE16 VRR

The most recent DVSA MOT test, conducted on 14 July 2022, resulted in a Pass, which indicates the vehicle met the minimum statutory roadworthiness requirements at the time of inspection. However, it is important to note that the same date carries a prior Fail entry for a Major defect concerning an offside rear coil spring that was fractured or broken. This is a significant structural and safety-related suspension component, and its failure necessitates immediate replacement rather than mere repair to restore correct ride height, wheel alignment, and braking stability. The accompanying advisory regarding the nearside front tyre being worn on both edges suggests either an alignment issue, typically camber misalignment or worn suspension bushes, or simply a tyre nearing the end of its useful service life. Considering the earlier tests were passed without recorded defects, the sudden appearance of a broken rear spring and a prematurely worn tyre is a notable concern and warrants thorough physical inspection, as such failures can recur if underlying causes such as corrosion stress or component fatigue have not been fully remediated. The recorded mileage of 15,668 miles over approximately ten years equates to an average annual usage of around 1,567 miles, which is exceptionally low for a vehicle of this age. Such low mileage strongly suggests the Fiesta has either spent considerable time standing unused or has been used primarily for short journeys, neither of which is conducive to long-term mechanical health. Long periods of inactivity can lead to brake disc corrosion, caliper seizure due to piston corrosion, deterioration of rubber components such as gaiters and bushes, and accelerated tyre sidewall perishing from age rather than wear. Conversely, predominantly short-trip usage prevents the engine and exhaust system from reaching full operating temperature, which can promote internal condensation, oil dilution, and premature degradation of time-sensitive consumables such as the 12V battery, engine oil, and coolant. Given the low annual mileage and age of the vehicle, a prospective buyer should conduct several practical inspections before purchase. The tyres should be examined closely for sidewall perishing, cracking, or bulging, as rubber compounds degrade with age regardless of tread depth; any tyres fitted prior to 2020 should be regarded as due for replacement on safety grounds. All four brake discs should be inspected for advanced surface corrosion, pitting, or lipping, and the calipers should be checked to ensure the pistons retract freely without binding. The 12V battery is likely to be approaching the end of its service life, typically five to seven years, so its resting voltage and ability to hold charge should be verified. Fluid conditions, including engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant, should be assessed against their recommended replacement intervals rather than relying solely on mileage, as calendar-based degradation is the more relevant factor here. The rear suspension should be physically examined for any remaining signs of corrosion stress or compromised bushes, and the vehicle should be test driven over varied road surfaces to listen for any suspension knocking, clonking, or creaking that could indicate deteriorated components. Additionally, verifying a continuous service history with documented brake fluid changes will confirm whether time-sensitive maintenance has been observed.