2016 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · SO16 SWJ

The 2016 Ford Fiesta’s most recent MOT test on 15 August 2025—just 11 months ago—confirmed full roadworthiness with no defects recorded at 31,268 miles. This marks a stable maintenance trend over the past three tests, though the August 2024 inspection revealed two near-failures on the rear tyres, both worn close to the legal limit and unevenly on the edge. While the 2023 and earlier tests showed no issues, the 2024 failures suggest a lapse in tyre rotation or alignment checks, as uneven wear often stems from improper handling. No advisories or structural faults have appeared in the record, indicating the vehicle has not undergone major overhauls or repairs between tests. The recorded mileage of 31,268 miles over ten years—approximately 3,127 miles annually—is unusually low for a car of this age, especially when compared to industry averages. Between August 2021 and August 2022, the vehicle accumulated just 2,691 miles, a gap that could imply prolonged storage or minimal use. The consistent annual mileage thereafter suggests recent, steady operation, though the low total raises questions about whether the vehicle has been driven under optimal conditions or left stationary for extended periods, which may accelerate wear on components like suspension bushes or seals. There are no gaps longer than 18 months between tests, ensuring compliance with MOT intervals. Given the 2024 tyre warnings, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the rear tyres for remaining tread depth and lateral wear patterns, as uneven wear can indicate alignment issues or worn suspension components. The absence of brake-related advisories in recent tests is reassuring, but the rear brakes should still be checked for binding calipers, uneven pad wear, or corrosion on the discs, particularly if the vehicle has been stored with wet brakes. Suspension bushes—especially at the rear—should be examined for cracking or excessive play, as these are common failure points in low-mileage cars left stationary. Finally, a visual inspection of the underbody for corrosion around the wheel arches, sills, and subframe is essential, as prolonged inactivity can accelerate rust development in critical structural areas.