2016 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · PL16 OBO

A chronic pattern of front suspension and braking component wear dominates the mechanical profile of this ten-year-old Ford Fiesta, with the most recent test on 23 June 2026 passing only after a prior failure five days earlier had already drawn attention to several of the same issues. Across the recorded history the nearside front shock absorber has been flagged for light oil misting at three consecutive tests spanning 2025 and 2026, suggesting an ongoing hydraulic weep rather than a one-off observation. The 2024 test produced a major failure for a fractured offside rear coil spring alongside a minor exhaust gas leak at the front flexi, and the 2026 test introduced new advisories covering both rear axle trailing arm bushes and swivel pins, a binding nearside front service brake, and thinning front inner brake pads. Taken together, the record shows a vehicle that is fundamentally roadworthy at present but is accumulating age-related deterioration across the suspension, braking, and exhaust systems at a steady rate. Recorded mileage of 111,134 miles over an approximate ten-year span equates to around 11,100 miles per year, which sits squarely within typical parameters for a Fiesta of this vintage and points to regular driving rather than extended periods of standing. There are no multi-year gaps in the MOT history that would indicate long-term lay-ups, and the tests are recorded at reasonably consistent annual intervals, allowing the wear pattern to be tracked without ambiguity. For a supermini covering this kind of mileage, the drivetrain and clutch will have absorbed substantial use, and the emerging advisories on bush wear, brake binding, and shock absorber misting are consistent with the accumulated mechanical duty rather than any abnormal usage profile. From a buyer's perspective, the trailing arm bushes and rear swivel pins flagged as slightly worn at the 2026 test warrant close physical inspection, as continued wear will eventually permit clonking noises over uneven surfaces and vague rear-end behaviour during cornering. On a test drive, listen for any knock or rattle from the rear axle over speed humps and rough tarmac, and check for uneven rear tyre wear which can indicate bush deterioration. The nearside front shock absorber misting should be examined for any progression to a wet seal or heavy oil film down the body of the unit, and the front end should be assessed for excessive bounce or poor damping recovery after pressing down on each corner. The advisories on front inner brake pad wear and a binding nearside front caliper mean the car should be driven with attention to whether the vehicle pulls to one side under braking, whether the nearside front disc runs noticeably hotter than the offside after a sustained stop, and whether there is any vibration through the steering wheel or pedal, as any of these symptoms would suggest the binding has progressed beyond a minor advisory. The 2024 fracture of the offside rear coil spring is a known weakness area on this generation of Fiesta and replacement springs of correct specification should be confirmed, ideally with evidence of the work carried out. The exhaust flexi leak noted in 2024 should be re-inspected underneath the vehicle for any renewed blowing sound at idle, black soot deposits around the joint, or a faint exhaust fume smell inside the cabin when the heater is on recirculation. Finally, the lighting defects recorded as failures in both 2024 and 2026, covering the offside rear stop lamp and registration plate illumination, are straightforward electrical items but should be verified as fully functional across all bulbs and that the lamp housings are free from water ingress before purchase.