2016 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · MT66 XDM

The most recent MOT, carried out on 5 March 2026, recorded a pass. Although the same date also shows a failure entry, no specific defects were logged, indicating the failure was likely administrative rather than technical. Across the five‑year span the vehicle has consistently cleared its annual test, demonstrating a stable maintenance record with no deterioration in recorded safety or emissions items. At ten years old the Fiesta has logged only 47 383 miles, equating to roughly 4 700 miles per annum. This is well below the average usage for a vehicle of its class and suggests periods of light duty or extended storage. Low mileage reduces cumulative wear on engine bearings, clutch plates and drivetrain components, but it also means that age‑related degradation of rubber, polymer and metal parts may be more pronounced than mileage‑related wear. Components such as suspension bushes, tyre sidewalls and the 12‑volt battery can suffer from calendar ageing even when they have seen few kilometres. Given the clean MOT history and the modest mileage, a prospective buyer should focus on age‑related inspections. Examine the tyres for sidewall cracking, dry‑rot or uneven wear that can develop from prolonged storage; verify the DOT code to confirm they are not beyond six years old. Check the battery terminals for corrosion, assess the state of charge and, if possible, have the cranking amperage measured to rule out a weakened cell. Inspect the under‑carriage and wheel arches for rust, especially around suspension mounting points and brake caliper brackets, as moisture can accumulate when a vehicle sits idle for long periods. Examine the brake discs for surface rust or pitting that could cause shudder, and verify that the calipers move freely without binding. Finally, request the full service book and look for regular oil‑change stamps, coolant flushes and brake‑fluid replacements, all of which should be performed on a time basis as well as by mileage. During a test drive listen for any clunking from the front suspension, monitor steering feel for play that might indicate worn tie‑rod ends or bushings, and note any hesitation or surging on acceleration that could reveal ageing engine seals or fuel‑system deposits. A comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic, followed by a fresh MOT, will confirm that the vehicle’s low‑mileage advantage has not been offset by the inevitable effects of ten years’ calendar ageing.