2016 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · LO66 VDV

The latest MOT test on the 2016 Ford Fiesta recorded a passing result with several advisories, indicating that the vehicle remains roadworthy but requires attention to specific components to prevent future failures. The overall maintenance trend over the past five years shows a pattern of consistent passing MOTs with recurring advisories rather than a clear deterioration or improvement. The advisories on suspension components, particularly the trailing arms and coil springs, suggest gradual wear that has been monitored but not yet deemed severe enough to fail the test. The presence of multiple advisories related to tyre condition—including sidewall perishing and worn tread—also highlights areas that demand closer inspection, particularly given the vehicle’s age and the potential for accelerated degradation from prolonged standing or infrequent use. The recorded mileage of 45,874 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of around 4,587 miles per year, which is unusual for its age and typically suggests either light or intermittent use. Such low mileage can lead to several mechanical concerns, including the development of corrosion from prolonged idling or standing, particularly in exposed components like the suspension coil springs and exhaust system. The gearbox mounting advisory from 2024 also indicates potential stress on the lower gearbox mount due to infrequent operation, which may exacerbate wear over time if not addressed. Additionally, the advisories on tyres—especially the perishing sidewalls—could be exacerbated by static exposure, leading to reduced grip and potential tread separation if not checked promptly. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the suspension components, particularly the trailing arms and coil springs, as the advisories suggest ongoing wear that could worsen with further use. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunks or rattles from the rear suspension, particularly when cornering or over bumps, which may indicate excessive movement or binding in the trailing arms. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, as the advisories on tyre tread and sidewall perishing suggest potential misalignment or excessive camber angles, which could lead to hydroplaning risks or premature tyre failure. Inspect the offside rear tyre for cracks or damage, as these can compromise structural integrity and pose a safety hazard. Additionally, verify that the headlamp aims are corrected, as the previous MOT failures highlighted this as a persistent issue, which could affect visibility and compliance with roadworthiness standards. Beyond the MOT advisories, conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle’s standing condition. Look for signs of corrosion on the bodywork, particularly around the wheel arches, exhaust system, and undercarriage, as prolonged exposure to moisture can accelerate rust progression. Check the tyre sidewalls for any signs of cracking or perishing, which can weaken the rubber and lead to blowouts if ignored. Test the 12V battery and associated electrical systems, as low mileage can sometimes result in battery degradation from prolonged disuse, leading to poor starting performance or electrical faults. Finally, consider the fluid levels and condition of the engine oil, transmission fluid, and brake fluid, as these should be serviced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations—typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first—due to the risk of fluid degradation from static exposure. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, a comprehensive service check is advisable to address any potential issues arising from standing, such as fuel system dry-out or lubricant breakdown.