2016 Ford Fiesta 1.5L Diesel · LS16 LBA

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 29 July 2026, but the overall maintenance trend is concerning. There is a clear pattern of recurring defects and advisories, particularly regarding the exhaust system and suspension, which suggests a reactive approach to maintenance rather than a preventative one. The progression from minor exhaust leaks in 2022 to major emissions failures in 2025, and the current advisory for black smoke, indicates an ongoing issue with the engine combustion or exhaust integrity that has not been fully resolved. With 76,829 recorded miles over approximately ten years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 7,683 miles per year. This is considered typical usage for a car of this age and suggests a consistent history of use without prolonged periods of standing or excessive heavy-duty mileage. While the mileage itself is not a cause for concern, the wear on consumables and chassis components recorded in the MOT history is more pronounced than would be expected for a meticulously maintained vehicle of this distance. A prospective buyer must prioritize a thorough inspection of the exhaust and engine performance. The recurring reports of exhaust leaks, combined with the latest advisory for black smoke during acceleration, point toward potential fuel system faults or incomplete combustion. During a test drive, observe the exhaust output under load and listen for any abnormal drones or hissing sounds that would indicate a leak. Furthermore, the history of worn rear axle bushes and a deteriorated front ball joint dust cover necessitates a check for suspension clunks or knocks when traversing uneven surfaces, as these components are critical for steering precision and vehicle stability. Attention should also be paid to the braking system and tyre condition. Previous advisories regarding pitted and scored front brake discs, along with thin brake pads, suggest the braking system may be due for a full overhaul. Feel for any shuddering through the brake pedal during deceleration, which often indicates warped or scored discs. Additionally, the history of tyres being worn close to the legal limit suggests a need to inspect current tread depth and check for uneven wear patterns, which could indicate underlying wheel alignment issues. Finally, verify if the defective rear fog lamp lens has been replaced, as this has been a persistent minor defect across several years of testing.