2016 Ford Fiesta 1.5L Diesel · SN66 MXM

The most recent DVSA examination on 16 March 2026 resulted in a clean pass with no advisories or defects recorded, and the prior test on 27 January 2025 also passed without comment following a failure two days earlier on 25 January 2025. The intervening failure is significant because it cited major defects at both the front and rear axles, specifically a fractured offside rear coil spring, excessive play in the offside front track rod end ball joint, and a non-functioning offside front position lamp, alongside a washer system deficiency flagged as a preventer of further testing. Although the vehicle has subsequently returned to a clean pass status, the nature of the January 2025 defects suggests that meaningful mechanical intervention was undertaken between the failure and re-test. The broader history shows a recurring pattern of rear axle coil spring failures, with another offside rear spring fracture noted in November 2022, and persistent advisories relating to rear tyre wear and suspension arm bushes, indicating that the rear suspension and undercarriage represent a chronic wear area for this particular car. With 124,335 miles recorded over approximately ten years, this Fiesta has covered an average of around 12,400 miles annually, which is notably above the typical mileage for a vehicle of this age and places it firmly in the high-use category. There are no extended gaps in the MOT record that would suggest prolonged periods of standing, and the relatively even progression of test dates implies continuous operational use. High annual mileage of this nature accelerates wear across all consumables, with particular implications for clutch and gearbox longevity, turbocharger service intervals on diesel derivatives, brake disc and pad life, suspension component fatigue, and the general integrity of rubber and bush elements. The combination of high mileage and documented rear suspension failures warrants particular attention to the condition of the undercarriage, as repeated coil spring fractures can also be symptomatic of heavier than expected load carrying or degraded shock absorber damping. From a prospective buyer's perspective, the recurrence of fractured rear coil springs is the single most important item to investigate, as a second failure of the same component within roughly three years could indicate either poor quality replacement parts, an unresolved underlying cause such as fatigued dampers allowing excessive spring travel, or continued heavy loading. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or rattling from the rear over uneven surfaces, particularly when traversing speed humps or potholes, and observe whether the vehicle sits level at both ends or shows any visible sagging. Inspect both rear springs closely for signs of surface cracking, corrosion pitting, or any indication of non-OE specification replacements, and check that the rear dampers are not leaking hydraulic fluid, as a weakened damper can dramatically shorten spring life. Also verify that the offside front track rod end replacement, if carried out, was followed by a proper wheel alignment, as a renewed joint without geometry correction will produce uneven and rapid front tyre wear, particularly on the inner or outer shoulder. Beyond the documented defects, the mileage profile and age of the vehicle demand thorough inspection of items that degrade with time as much as with use. The brake discs on a high-mileage Fiesta are likely approaching their minimum thickness and should be measured for lip and run-out, as warped discs produce a distinct pulsation through the steering wheel under braking. Coolant and brake fluid should be assumed to be due for renewal regardless of service history, as both are time-sensitive and degrade chemically. The exhaust system, particularly the rear silencer and mounting rubbers, should be checked for corrosion given the vehicle's age and likely exposure to winter road salts. The 12V battery should be load tested, and the auxiliary drive belt examined for cracking. Finally, given the high accumulated mileage, request evidence of cambelt or timing chain service history appropriate to the engine variant fitted, inspect the engine oil and coolant for signs of mayonnaise-like residue or discolouration suggesting head gasket distress, and ensure that the service book reflects regular oil and filter changes at appropriate intervals to give confidence in the long-term mechanical integrity of the powertrain.