2016 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · VE66 BFV

The most recent MOT test on 2025-08-27 resulted in a pass, though it carried two advisories that warrant careful consideration. The overall maintenance trend over the past three years shows a pattern of recurring issues rather than a clear improvement or stability. While some defects have been noted as non-critical in previous tests, the persistence of suspension arm bush wear, particularly on the rear trailing arms and front lower arms, suggests underlying mechanical fatigue that could escalate with continued use. The brake system advisories, including worn discs and imbalanced brake effort, indicate that the braking system is approaching its operational limits and requires attention to prevent potential failure under load. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 106,840 miles at the time of assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 10,684 miles per year, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for a 10-year-old car. However, the absence of significantly higher mileage accumulation over the last few years—particularly the two-year gap between the 2023 and 2025 MOTs—could imply periods of reduced or stationary use. This may have contributed to some wear patterns, such as the distortion of wheels and suspension components, which are more pronounced when a vehicle stands idle for extended periods. The suspension bushes, in particular, appear to be nearing their serviceable lifespan, especially given their repeated advisories of wear but not excessive movement. This suggests that the vehicle may have been driven with some irregularity in load distribution or cornering, exacerbating stress on these components. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the suspension system and braking components. The advisories on suspension arm bush wear indicate that the lower control arms and trailing arms may be starting to fail, leading to clunking noises when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. Listen for a rhythmic, metallic clunking from the rear or front suspension during acceleration and braking, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns that could suggest misalignment or binding in the wheels. The brake system advisories, particularly the near-side front and rear brake pad thickness below 1.5mm, necessitate immediate attention. Inspect the brake discs for scoring, warping, or excessive thickness reduction, and test for a brake shudder or pulsation when applying the pedal, which could indicate warped discs or internal brake component issues. Additionally, verify that the brake fluid is clear and free of contamination, as standing fluid can corrode brake components over time. Beyond the mechanical checks, the vehicle’s age and mileage warrant a thorough inspection of the electrical and structural integrity. Given the recent headlamp failures and insecure mounting, ensure all exterior lights are functional and securely attached, as poor alignment or loose mounting can lead to further electrical or safety issues. Check the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which is more likely in a 10-year-old car, even if the tread remains legal. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the 12V battery holds a charge when static, as prolonged idling or lack of use can degrade battery health. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in recent years, verify the service book for any missing or outdated fluid servicing, particularly for the engine oil, transmission fluid, and brake fluid, as these fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. A calendar-based service at around 10 years old or 150,000 miles would be prudent to address any wear items not yet flagged by the MOT, such as timing belt replacement if applicable, or suspension component replacement if the bush wear continues to progress.