2016 Ford Fiesta 1.0L Petrol · YG66 FHD

The most recent MOT on 11 October 2024 resulted in a failure, recording three major defects: a non‑functional tyre pressure monitoring system, a fractured off‑side rear coil spring and a non‑working stop lamp. This follows a pattern of escalating issues; earlier tests showed only advisories, but from 2022 onward the record has accumulated increasingly serious faults, culminating in the current major failures. The trend is therefore clearly worsening rather than stabilising, indicating that key suspension components and safety systems have not been remedied in a timely manner. With a recorded 36,960 mi on a ten‑year‑old 2016 Fiesta the average annual mileage works out at roughly 3,700 mi. This is well below the typical UK usage of 7‑10 000 mi per year and suggests the car has spent considerable periods stationary. Low utilisation can be a double‑edged sword: while it reduces wear on moving parts, it also promotes tyre sidewall perishing, battery sulphation, brake disc corrosion and the degradation of seals and fluids that are time‑dependent rather than mileage‑dependent. The mileage figure itself does not raise immediate wear concerns, but the low utilisation history makes age‑related deterioration more likely. A prospective buyer should give the rear suspension the highest priority. Both rear coil springs have been recorded as fractured – the near‑side spring failed in 2021 and the off‑side spring now in 2024 – and the rear axle swivel pins and bushes were noted as slightly worn in 2023. Inspect the springs for cracks, rust or broken coils, and verify that the rear anti‑roll bar and mounting points are sound. On a test drive listen for clunking or knocking over bumps, feel for excessive body roll, and check that the rear wheels remain steady under braking. The light misting of oil from the off‑side rear shock absorber, flagged in 2023, can presage a full shock failure; look for oil stains on the rear wheel arches and feel for a soft, spongy response when compressing the rear suspension. The front exhaust leak reported in 2023 should be examined for rusted joints or cracked flexi pipe, as a leak can raise emissions and cause a noticeable rattle at low engine speeds. Beyond the documented defects, the car’s age and low‑mileage usage demand a thorough inspection of time‑sensitive components. The tyres were flagged as perished at only 3 mm tread depth in 2022; verify that all four tyres have adequate tread, uniform wear and no sidewall cracking, and replace any that show dry rot. Check the stop lamp circuitry and replace the bulb or wiring as required. The TPMS sensor failure must be rectified before the next MOT – a faulty sensor can mask low tyre pressures and affect handling. Examine the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or glazing, and ensure the pads have sufficient thickness; binding calipers are common on cars that sit for long periods. Test the 12 V battery voltage and perform a load test, as prolonged inactivity can lead to sulphation and reduced cranking power. Finally, confirm that the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been changed within the manufacturer’s calendar intervals, since fluids degrade even when the vehicle is not driven heavily. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the Fiesta’s current roadworthiness and the likely cost of bringing it back to a reliable, MOT‑passable condition.