2016 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · WM65 LLC

The 2016 Ford Fiesta’s most recent MOT test on 2026-01-07 was clean, marking a return to full compliance after a series of advisories and minor failures in 2021. While the vehicle has otherwise maintained a stable MOT history, the presence of recurring advisories—particularly on brake disc wear and exhaust leaks—suggests a pattern of gradual mechanical degradation that warrants closer attention. The absence of failures in the past two years indicates that maintenance has likely been consistent, but the advisories from 2021 and 2024 indicate ongoing issues that require proactive monitoring rather than reactive correction. The vehicle’s overall roadworthiness is currently unaffected, but the advisories point to areas where wear progression may accelerate without intervention, such as brake system longevity or exhaust system integrity. The recorded mileage of 54,074 miles for a ten-year-old Fiesta represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 5,407 miles per year, which is unusually low for its age. Typically, a vehicle of this vintage would accumulate closer to 10,000–15,000 miles annually under normal conditions, suggesting either minimal operational use or prolonged periods of stationary storage. Such low mileage can mask certain wear patterns, particularly in components like brakes, suspension, and fluids, which may have degraded over time due to age rather than usage. However, the advisories on brake discs and tyres—even at lower mileage—highlight that standing corrosion and prolonged inactivity can accelerate deterioration in components like brake calipers, discs, and seals, potentially leading to binding or reduced braking performance. Additionally, fluids such as brake fluid and coolant can degrade over time, even without significant mileage, which may explain the observed wear on brake discs and the need for further inspection. Given the advisories on brake disc wear and tyre perishing, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the braking system, focusing on the front discs for signs of excessive pitting, scoring, or warping, which could indicate underlying issues such as misalignment, warped rotors, or binding calipers. During a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, shuddering or pulsation under braking, or a spongy feel, which may signal warped discs or worn brake pads. The minor exhaust leak should also be addressed promptly, as persistent exhaust gas leaks can lead to reduced engine efficiency, increased emissions, or even structural damage to the exhaust system. Check for any oil leaks around the exhaust manifold or mounting points, and ensure the exhaust system is free of rust or corrosion, particularly in the rear box area, as this could exacerbate the leak. For the tyre advisories, particularly the rear tyres starting to perish, the buyer should examine the sidewall for signs of cracking, perishing, or dry rot, which can compromise tyre integrity and safety. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, sidewall checks are critical, as tyres can degrade over time even without significant tread wear. Inspect the tyre pressure and tread depth across all tyres, ensuring they meet legal minimums and are evenly worn, which could indicate alignment or suspension issues. Additionally, with the vehicle’s history of low usage, check the 12-volt battery for signs of weakness or corrosion on terminals, as prolonged disuse can lead to battery failure or reduced cranking power. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in recent years, verify the presence of service book stamps for fluid changes, particularly brake fluid (which should be replaced every 2–3 years regardless of mileage) and coolant, as both degrade over time. Calendar-based maintenance is essential for a vehicle of this age, especially if it has been stationary for extended periods.