2016 Ford Fiesta 1.5L Diesel · OO10 AAM

The vehicle’s roadworthiness shows a worsening trend, with the most recent MOT on 2026-04-02 marking a pass but highlighting persistent suspension and braking concerns. The March 2026 failure revealed critical issues: both front suspension arm ball joints excessively worn, nearside front track rod end with excessive play, and dual rear stop lamps inoperative. These faults indicate progressive mechanical degradation, exacerbated by the low mileage of 55,637 miles over 10 years, which may reflect infrequent use or prolonged inactivity. While the April 2026 test resolved the stop lamp failures, the suspension components remain unresolved, suggesting ongoing risks to handling and safety. The mileage pattern reveals irregularity, with significant gaps between tests. From 2023-03-22 (37,063 miles) to 2024-03-15 (43,046 miles), the car gained 6,000 miles in 12 months, followed by 7,114 miles over 12 months to 2025-03-24 (50,155 miles). This uneven accumulation, combined with the 55,637-mile reading in 2026, raises questions about maintenance consistency. The low annual average of ~5,564 miles contrasts with the 2023-2025 period, where tyre wear and suspension play were noted, implying potential neglect during periods of inactivity. A buyer should prioritise inspecting the front suspension components, particularly the ball joints and track rod ends, which have repeatedly failed or shown excessive play. The brake system requires scrutiny, as stop lamp failures and potential binding calipers (implied by the 2026-03-27 test) could compromise braking efficiency. Additionally, the near-legal tyre tread in 2023 and loose exhaust heat shields in 2026 suggest deferred maintenance. Structural integrity should also be verified, as low mileage does not preclude corrosion or hidden rust in underbody areas.