2016 Ford Ecosport 1.5L Diesel · SC65 VNF

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 5 August 2026, although this followed an earlier failure on the same date which required rectification before a pass could be issued. The major failures at that test concerned the tyre pressure monitoring system being obviously inoperative and an ineffective nearside windscreen wiper, both of which are relatively straightforward electrical and mechanical items. Advisories were also noted for slight discolouration across multiple direction indicator lenses, which typically indicates UV degradation of older plastic housings rather than an immediate functional concern. Reviewing the broader trajectory, the pattern over the past four MOT cycles suggests a vehicle whose maintenance trend is broadly stable but with gradually accumulating advisories, particularly in the areas of suspension components, braking hardware and tyre wear. The two prior consecutive passes in 2021 and 2022 with no defects recorded indicate that wear-related issues have become more apparent as the vehicle has accumulated mileage and age, which is entirely consistent with a ten-year-old car. With 61,092 miles recorded over approximately ten years, the Ecosport has covered around 6,109 miles annually, which sits comfortably within typical usage parameters for a vehicle of this age and class. There are no substantial gaps in the MOT testing record that would suggest long periods of standing or storage, and the progression of mileage between tests appears consistent with regular driving. This steady rate of use is generally favourable from a mechanical standpoint, as it avoids the worst effects of either extreme; very low mileage often leads to corrosion from underuse and degraded fluids, while very high mileage accelerates wear on major drivetrain components. At this annual average, consumable items such as tyres, brake pads and discs will have experienced multiple replacement cycles, and the advisories recorded in recent tests reflect that normal consumption pattern. The recurring advisories across multiple tests warrant particular attention from a prospective buyer. Coil spring corrosion was noted at the most recent test on both rear springs, and combined with the 2024 advisories for front suspension arm pin or bush wear, this points to broader suspension degradation that should be inspected physically. On a test drive, listen for clonks or rattles over uneven road surfaces, particularly when traversing speed bumps or potholes, and feel for any vagueness in steering response or uneven tyre wear across the axles, as worn bushes frequently present in this manner. The 2025 advisory for slight play in the offside front track rod end ball joint is also worth monitoring, since excessive wear here will eventually cause an MOT failure and can manifest as imprecise steering or uneven front tyre wear. Given the pattern of suspension-related advisories, budgeting for replacement of the rear coil springs and likely the front suspension bushes in the near term would be prudent. Braking system advisories are also recurrent, with worn front brake discs noted in 2024 and a rear shock absorber showing light oil misting. The shock absorber advisory is currently minor but warrants observation for any worsening seepage, and on a test drive the vehicle should be evaluated for any excessive body roll, wallowing over undulations, or a harsh ride quality that would suggest damper degradation. Tyre wear has been flagged repeatedly at both front and rear positions across several tests, with a near-limit nearside rear tyre also resulting in a cut-related failure in 2024, so a prospective buyer should verify that all four tyres have adequate tread and are of matching age and specification. Beyond the recorded defects, a ten-year-old vehicle with average mileage should also receive checks for age-related deterioration including brake disc surface corrosion from standing periods, perishing or cracking of tyre sidewalls even where tread depth remains legal, the condition and state of charge of the 12 volt battery, and the service history for confirmation that brake fluid, coolant and automatic transmission fluid where applicable have been replaced on calendar-based intervals rather than purely mileage triggers. Verification of the timing belt or chain service interval, dependent on the engine variant fitted, should also be confirmed through the service book, as calendar age rather than mileage is the governing factor for these critical components.