2016 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · PJ66 SVX

A persistent pattern of safety-critical failures and component degradation defines the mechanical background of this Ford Fiesta, punctuated by multiple test refusals prior to eventual passes. The latest MOT test conducted on the first of October 2025 initially resulted in a failure due to dangerous tyre tread depths below legal requirements on both front wheels and a missing road wheel fixing, alongside advisories noting light oil misting on the nearside front and nearside rear shock absorbers. While the vehicle subsequently achieved a pass on the same day after rectification, this follows a concerning prior year trajectory that included dangerous front brake pad wear, excessive wear on the nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint, and misaligned headlamps during a 2024 failure, indicating a history of intensive wear across primary stopping and steering assemblies. Accumulating 59,555 miles across its ten-year lifespan yields an average of approximately 5,956 miles per year, representing a notably lower annual mileage profile than the national average. This reduced usage rate does not inherently shield the vehicle from heavy wear on consumables, as evidenced by the severe component failures recorded during its testing history. The data shows consistent annual testing intervals without extended gaps of dormancy, confirming that the vehicle has remained in regular service despite the frequent interventions required to secure its roadworthiness certificates. Prospective buyers must inspect the steering and suspension components closely during a static and dynamic examination, specifically checking the nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint and listening for knocks, clunks, or excessive play when navigating rough road surfaces or turning lock-to-lock. Given the history of excessive free play in the steering rack documented during the 2022 test, the steering feel must be evaluated for vagueness or slackness around the central position. Furthermore, the brake system warrants rigorous scrutiny to ensure the calipers retract cleanly and the discs and pads are functioning without judder or imbalance following the dangerous wear levels noted on the front axle in previous tests. Attention should also be directed toward the suspension dampers, verifying whether the light oil misting recorded on the nearside front and nearside rear shock absorbers has progressed to active leaking or reduced damping efficiency, which would manifest as excessive body roll or bouncing over undulating tarmac. Inspecting the inner and outer edges of all tyres is essential to check for uneven wear patterns, aligning with historical advisories regarding tyres worn close to the legal limit. Finally, all exterior lighting systems, including headlamp beam alignment and rear reflectors, must be functionally tested to ensure compliance following past adjustment and damage defects.