2016 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · YP16 MPY

The most recent MOT, carried out on 21 October 2025, was a pass but recorded two advisories – the off‑side front outer tyre was close to the legal tread limit and the off‑side front tyre showed edge wear – and a failure for the nearside headlamp not operating on dipped beam. Over the preceding five years the vehicle has shown a pattern of recurring tyre wear advisories, occasional suspension bush wear notes and a gradual decline in brake component condition, suggesting a maintenance record that is holding together but not improving; the presence of a headlamp fault now indicates that routine electrical checks may have been neglected. At ten years old the Fiesta has only 36 002 miles on the clock, averaging roughly 3 600 miles per annum. This is well below the typical UK usage pattern and points to long periods of low utilisation or extended storage. Low mileage can be a benefit in terms of reduced wear on engine internals, but it also raises the likelihood of tyre perishing, battery sulphation and corrosion of suspension bushings and swivel pins that develop with age rather than distance. There are no large mileage spikes that would suggest a sudden period of heavy use, so the wear observed is more likely to be calendar‑related. Prospective buyers should give the tyres immediate attention. The off‑side front tyre is already at the legal limit and the tread on the other three corners has been flagged in previous years; inspect the sidewalls for cracking, check for uneven wear that could indicate mis‑alignment or worn suspension components, and be prepared to replace the entire set if any tyre shows perishing. Verify that the nearside dipped‑beam headlamp illuminates correctly and that the lens is clear; a faulty bulb or wiring fault can be remedied cheaply but should not be ignored. During a short test drive listen for clunking or looseness when the steering is turned, especially over bumps, as the rear axle swivel pins and trailing‑arm bushes were noted as slightly worn; any excessive play or squeaking may signal that the bushes are approaching the end of their service life and will need replacement. Examine the front brake discs for scoring and the rear pads for thinness – the 2023 advisory indicated disc pitting and rear pad wear, so feel for brake pedal pulsation or shudder and check that the discs are not close to the minimum thickness, as replacement will be required soon. Given the vehicle’s age and low‑use profile, a thorough visual inspection of the under‑carriage for corrosion, especially around the chassis rails and rear sub‑frame, is advisable. Test the 12 V battery voltage and check for any signs of sulphation or leaking electrolyte; a battery that has sat for long periods may need a replacement even if it still holds a charge. Verify that all fluid service intervals have been observed – coolant, brake fluid and engine oil typically require calendar changes every 12‑24 months regardless of mileage, so ask for service stamps or receipts. Finally, confirm that the timing belt (if fitted) or timing chain has been serviced according to the manufacturer’s schedule, as neglect here can lead to catastrophic engine damage despite the low mileage.