2016 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · WU66 STX

The most recent MOT on 2026-05-08 recorded a pass for the 2016 Ford Fiesta, but a slight free play in the front steering rack was noted (2.3 (a) (i)). This mirrors an identical defect recorded in the previous MOT on 2026-05-07 , which resulted in a fail due to low offside front tyre tread (5.2.3 (e)), steering rack free play, and a non-working offside rear stop lamp (4.3.1 (a) (ii)). The steering rack issue appears to be a recurring concern, persisting across two consecutive MOTs despite the vehicle’s low mileage. The pattern of defects suggests ongoing mechanical wear in the steering system, which could indicate aging components or insufficient maintenance. While the 2026-05-08 MOT resolved the tyre and lamp issues, the steering rack free play remains unaddressed, raising concerns about potential safety risks. The vehicle’s low mileage (5,728 miles per year) may reflect infrequent use or periods of inactivity, which can exacerbate issues like steering component stiffness or fluid degradation. However, this mileage is not inherently indicative of heavy wear, as the steering rack’s condition suggests age-related deterioration rather than excessive use. The MOT history shows mixed trends : two passes with minor issues (2025-05-01, 2023-05-12) and one fail in 2026-05-07, followed by a pass with the same steering rack defect. This implies a stable but unresolved issue rather than a worsening condition. The low mileage complicates interpretation—while it may reduce wear on high-mileage components like brakes or tyres, it does not eliminate risks from under-use, such as corrosion or seized parts.