2016 Ford Ecosport 1.0L Petrol · WG66 OUU

The most recent MOT test on the 2016 Ford Focus ST (as the EcoSport is commonly known) was conducted on 2025-10-28, resulting in a passing grade. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories rather than a consistent improvement, indicating that while the car has not failed a test outright, several critical areas require attention. The most persistent issues include nearside and offside front tyres worn close to the legal limit, which suggests either underinflation, excessive load distribution, or prolonged exposure to edge wear conditions. Additionally, the exhaust system has been flagged with minor leaks and a major failure on emissions testing in 2025, particularly around the lambda sensor readings during fast idle, which could point to a failing catalytic converter or sensor failure. The near-side park brake efficiency has also been noted as low in multiple tests, which may indicate a worn or degraded park brake cable, mechanical linkage, or hydraulic system component. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 91,257 miles at the time of this assessment represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 9,126 miles per year, which is typical for a car of this age and model year. This level of mileage, while not excessively high for a ten-year-old vehicle, does not necessarily correlate with wear severity unless combined with prolonged periods of inactivity or heavy-duty use. However, the absence of significant mileage gaps suggests consistent ownership, which could mean more frequent exposure to wear items like brake pads, suspension components, and exhaust systems. The lack of a dramatic spike in mileage over recent years also implies that the vehicle has not been subjected to extreme conditions that might accelerate component failure, but buyers should still verify whether the car has been stored in a controlled environment to mitigate issues like tyre perishing or standing corrosion. To proceed with a thorough inspection, the prospective buyer should prioritise checking the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even at moderate mileage due to age-related degradation of the rubber compound. The near-side and off-side front tyres showing edge wear close to legal limits warrant immediate attention, as this pattern often indicates improper alignment or excessive camber angles. On a test drive, listen for any irregularities in tyre noise, particularly around the edges, and inspect the tread depth for uneven wear. The exhaust system should be visually inspected for leaks around the manifold, catalytic converter, and exhaust pipes, as well as for any unusual noises or vibrations, which may signal a failing catalytic converter or exhaust manifold gasket. A test drive should also include a check for exhaust emissions, particularly during fast idle, to confirm that the lambda sensor and catalytic converter are functioning correctly. If the exhaust issues persist, a professional diagnostic test may be necessary to pinpoint the exact cause of the lambda sensor failure. The park brake system should be tested by engaging it fully while the vehicle is stationary and parked on a flat surface. The brake should hold firmly without any excessive play or binding, and the pedal feel should be consistent when the brake is released. If the near-side park brake is found to be inefficient, the cable tension, linkage alignment, or hydraulic brake fluid levels (if applicable) should be inspected. The buyer should also verify the brake discs and pads for signs of excessive wear, corrosion, or binding, which can occur if the vehicle has been left stationary for extended periods. Inspect the brake discs for any grooving, warping, or uneven thickness, and listen for grinding or squealing noises when the brakes are applied. Additionally, the suspension should be checked for signs of wear in the bushes, coil springs, and control arms, as the EcoSport’s suspension design is prone to gradual deterioration over time. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, the 12V battery should be tested for charge retention and overall health, as older batteries can fail unexpectedly, leading to starting issues or electrical system malfunctions. The buyer should also verify that the service records are up to date, particularly for fluid servicing, such as brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, which should be replaced in accordance with Ford’s recommended intervals, even if the MOT history does not explicitly state this.