2016 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · WM66 HWN

The most recent DVSA MOT test, conducted on 10 January 2026, resulted in a clean pass with no advisories or defects recorded, which is a positive indicator for the immediate roadworthiness of this 2016 Ford Fiesta. However, evaluating the broader trend across the recorded MOT history suggests a degree of wear-related deterioration that a prospective buyer should not overlook. In January 2023 and January 2024 the vehicle accumulated multiple tyre-related advisories, including a dangerous failure on 6 January 2024 for an offside front tyre with ply or cords exposed, alongside repeated notes for nearside and offside front tyres worn close to the legal limit with edge wear. The January 2025 test then introduced an advisory for a minor exhaust gas leak, indicating that while the car remains fundamentally roadworthy, component degradation is progressing and should be actively addressed by any new owner. With a recorded mileage of 124,333 miles over approximately ten years, this Fiesta has averaged around 12,433 miles annually, which is notably high for its age and well above the typical 7,000 to 9,000 miles per year expected for a small supermini in private use. This elevated annual mileage is mechanically significant, as it accelerates wear on consumables, braking components, suspension bushes, coil springs, and clutch or transmission elements relative to a lower-mileage equivalent. The relatively consistent year-on-year MOT dates suggest the vehicle has been in regular use rather than left standing for prolonged periods, which is generally favourable for avoiding issues such as seized brake calipers, severe brake disc corrosion, and 12V battery deterioration, although it places greater demand on serviceable items. Given the recurring tyre advisories and the dangerous failure for cord exposure, a thorough inspection of the remaining tyres is essential, paying close attention to tread depth across the full width of each tyre as uneven or edge wear is often symptomatic of misaligned geometry, worn suspension components, or incorrect inflation pressures. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking from the front suspension over speed bumps, which could indicate worn suspension bushes, top mounts, or droplinks, and feel for vibration through the steering wheel that may suggest brake disc warping from the high mileage. Examine the exhaust system from the manifold gasket rearwards for black soot deposits indicating leaks, particularly around the front flex section and rear box, as the noted minor blow from January 2025 will inevitably worsen over time and could manifest as an audible ticking under load or a ticking noise on cold start. Beyond the recorded MOT items, prospective buyers should also verify the date stamping on the tyres currently fitted to confirm they are not excessively aged, as rubber perishes regardless of tread depth and old sidewalls can crack dangerously even on a high-mileage car that has seen regular use. Inspect the brake discs and calipers on a test drive by pulling away slowly and listening for any scraping or grinding, which could indicate worn pads or a binding caliper, and check the engine bay for evidence of fluid leaks or perished hoses consistent with the mileage. Given that the car is approaching the ten-year mark, it is prudent to confirm that the timing belt or chain service interval has been observed according to Ford specifications, and to replace the brake fluid, coolant, and inspect the 12V battery, as calendar-based fluid degradation is a common issue on vehicles of this age regardless of MOT outcome. Finally, request evidence of the complete service history to ensure that the high annual mileage has been accompanied by regular oil and filter changes, which is critical for the long-term durability of the 1.0 EcoBoost or 1.25 Duratec engine fitted to this model.