2016 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · RF66 LRA

The most recent MOT test on the 2016 Ford Fiesta, conducted on 2025-11-05, resulted in a clean pass with no recorded defects, marking a continuation of a stable maintenance trend over the past five years. Despite the vehicle’s age, the absence of repeated failures or persistent advisories suggests that the owner has prioritised routine servicing and basic roadworthiness checks, though the 2021 MOT highlights a recurring issue with headlamp alignment that was corrected at that time. The advisory on the 2020 MOT regarding tyre wear close to legal limits—particularly on the front tyres—was not addressed, indicating either a delay in replacement or ongoing monitoring of tread depth. This pattern of consistent passing with minor advisories points to a vehicle that has generally maintained roadworthiness but requires careful attention to specific wear and tear areas, particularly those linked to low mileage and potential prolonged standing. The recorded mileage of 27,962 miles for a ten-year-old Fiesta represents an unusually low annual usage rate of approximately 2,796 miles per year, which is far below the industry average for vehicles of this age. Such low mileage often correlates with periods of extended stationary use, particularly in climates where vehicles are parked for long durations, leading to accelerated wear in consumables like brake pads, tyres, and fluids, as well as potential corrosion from standing. The suspension, which relies on dynamic movement to absorb road imperfections, may also show signs of stiffness or binding if the vehicle has been left in a stationary position for prolonged periods, potentially exacerbating issues like worn suspension bushes or binding calipers. Additionally, the brake system could exhibit signs of corrosion or uneven wear due to infrequent use, with discs or pads potentially binding or developing a shudder when first applied after extended inactivity. Given the clean MOT history aside from the noted advisories, the buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection to address potential issues arising from low mileage and prolonged stationary use. Start with the tyres, checking for sidewall perishing or cracking, which can occur over time even with low mileage, and verify that the tread depth is well above the legal minimum. Inspect the brake system for signs of corrosion on discs or binding in the calipers, which may cause uneven braking or a shudder when braking, particularly noticeable on a test drive when the vehicle is first driven after a period of inactivity. The headlamps should be re-aimed to ensure compliance with legal standards, as the 2021 MOT failure highlighted alignment issues that may have persisted. Additionally, the battery should be tested for strength, as prolonged disuse can lead to reduced charge capacity or corrosion in terminals, which could result in starting difficulties or electrical system failures. For fluid servicing, the buyer should consider a comprehensive check of the engine oil, transmission fluid, and brake fluid, as these can degrade over time even with low mileage, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. The coolant system should be inspected for leaks or signs of overheating, as standing vehicles can lead to stagnant coolant that may corrode hoses or the water pump. The exhaust system should be checked for leaks or unusual noises, which could indicate wear or damage from prolonged stationary use, and the emissions system should be reviewed for compliance, particularly if the vehicle has been used in areas with stringent emissions regulations. Finally, the suspension should be examined for signs of stiffness or unusual noises, such as clunks or rattles, which may indicate worn suspension components or binding in the struts or bushes. If any of these issues are suspected, a professional inspection or servicing should be arranged promptly to prevent further deterioration and ensure the vehicle remains safe and reliable.