2016 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · PL66 EPN

The vehicle's roadworthiness profile is defined by a recurring pattern of suspension and steering wear, culminating in a major failure in October 2025. While the car passed its most recent test on 9 October 2025, the record reveals a deterioration in chassis components over the last two years, with the October 2024 test already flagging slight play in front suspension arm ball joints and worn axle swivel pins. This progression from advisories to a major defect on the nearside track rod end highlights a specific mechanical weakness that requires immediate attention before regular use. At 85,512 miles recorded as of today, the vehicle has accumulated approximately 8,551 miles annually over a ten-year period, indicating a usage pattern typical for a standard family car. The absence of a recorded test between November 2022 and October 2023 suggests a potential gap in maintenance or a period of extended storage, which could correlate with the sudden appearance of tyre wear advisories in late 2022. However, the recent testing frequency indicates the car is currently in active service, with the mileage reflecting standard wear on suspension and steering linkages rather than excessive high-speed or heavy-load usage. Prospective buyers must scrutinise the steering and suspension systems immediately, as the record indicates significant wear in these areas. On a test drive, listen for any clunking or rattling noises over speed bumps or uneven road surfaces, which could indicate the worn front suspension arm ball joints or the corroded rear coil springs. Additionally, check for any play in the steering wheel when the vehicle is stationary and the steering wheel is turned from lock to lock; a slight amount of free play is normal, but excessive movement suggests the worn track rod end or steering rack inner joint. The light misting of oil on the offside front shock absorber is a common aging issue but should be monitored for signs of leakage that could affect damping performance. Tyre condition remains a critical factor, with previous tests noting wear close to the legal limit on multiple corners. Inspect the tread depth across all four wheels to ensure they meet the current legal requirements and check for uneven wear patterns that might indicate alignment issues or suspension faults. While the recent 2025 tests did not flag tyre defects, the history of edge wear suggests the vehicle may have been running with incorrect tracking or suspension angles, which should be addressed if the current tyres are worn down to the legal limit.