2016 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Petrol · RF66 VXX

The most recent MOT test on the 2016 Ford Fiesta, conducted on 2026-06-09, resulted in a pass with two advisories: a nearside front child seat obstruction preventing full inspection of the adult seat belt, and a light oil misting in the offside rear shock absorber. While the overall trend in the vehicle’s MOT history is mixed, the recent tests do not show a clear deterioration in roadworthiness, though the presence of multiple recurring advisories—particularly in suspension and brake systems—suggests ongoing wear that may require attention before it escalates. The failure history, particularly the dangerous tyre defects from 2023 and 2025, indicates that the vehicle has faced critical structural tyre integrity issues, which must be addressed promptly to prevent catastrophic failure. The lack of a recent major failure since 2025-06-03 is encouraging, but the consistent advisories on brake pad thickness and hydraulic system integrity suggest that the braking system is approaching critical limits, warranting immediate inspection. The recorded mileage of 59,476 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of around 5,948 miles per year, which is unusually low for its age. Such low mileage often correlates with prolonged periods of inactivity, particularly if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, leading to potential issues such as corrosion, fluid degradation, and mechanical stiffness. The absence of rapid mileage accumulation over the last few years suggests that the vehicle has not been subjected to high-stress driving conditions, but this also implies that consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components may have been underutilised in terms of wear, yet still require attention due to their age. The low mileage record could mask underlying wear from static conditions—such as standing corrosion on suspension components or brake discs—where prolonged exposure to moisture and lack of movement accelerates deterioration. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect and address are the tyres, brakes, and suspension, given the recurring MOT advisories and past failures. The dangerous tyre defects from 2023 and 2025—including bulges and tears—demand immediate replacement of all four tyres, as these conditions indicate structural failure that could lead to a blowout or loss of control. During a test drive, listen for unusual tyre noise, such as a scraping or grinding sound, and check for uneven wear patterns or excessive vibration, which may signal underlying alignment or suspension issues. The brake system advisories, particularly the nearside rear brake pads being below 1.5 mm and the hydraulic reservoir nearing minimum, require professional inspection to assess disc thickness, caliper function, and fluid condition. Binding calipers or corroded brake discs can cause uneven braking performance or overheating, so a thorough brake system check is essential. Additionally, inspect the suspension for signs of excessive play, clunking noises during cornering, or visible corrosion on the rear coil spring and axle components, as these advisories suggest wear that could compromise ride quality and handling. Beyond the immediate concerns, the vehicle’s age and low annual mileage necessitate a comprehensive physical inspection for age-related wear and standing-related deterioration. Check the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing, cracking, or dry rot, which can compromise their structural integrity, especially if the tyres have been stored for extended periods. Verify the condition of the 12-volt battery, as prolonged disuse can lead to sulphation or internal failure, and test the alternator output to ensure the battery remains charged. Inspect the exhaust system for corrosion or leaks, as standing emissions can accelerate rusting in the catalytic converter or muffler. Fluid servicing should be timed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, with particular attention to the brake fluid, which can absorb moisture and degrade over time, even with low mileage. Finally, verify that all service stamps—particularly for the brake system, suspension, and timing belt (if applicable)—have been recorded, as these records provide a historical context for wear progression and maintenance history. If the vehicle has been stored for significant periods, consider a thorough mechanical check to address any hidden issues from static conditions, such as seized suspension linkages or corroded steering components.