2009 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Diesel · AM57 LEM

The most recent DVSA examination on 12 May 2026 resulted in a Pass, though three advisories were recorded which collectively suggest that the vehicle is beginning to show its age. The exhaust emitting black smoke under acceleration is indicative of incomplete combustion, typically pointing toward worn engine components such as the fuel injectors, ageing spark plugs, or a failing oxygen sensor, while the advisory regarding corrosion to the front and rear axle is a structural concern that warrants close visual inspection for any flaking or perforation. The history shows a stable pattern, with consecutive passes since 2020 and only a single failure recorded in February 2025, which was strictly limited to headlamp alignment and corrected on the same day. However, the trend is gradually worsening rather than improving, as the number of advisories has increased over the last three tests, moving from exhaust and tyre concerns in 2020 and 2022 to brake imbalance and axle corrosion in 2025 and 2026. With 159,405 recorded miles over approximately 17 years of service, the vehicle has averaged around 9,377 miles annually, which is broadly typical for its age and suggests reasonably consistent use rather than long periods of standing. That said, at this mileage many major mechanical components will have been stressed close to their design limits. The repeated advisories relating to front brake pads, brake imbalance, and tyre edge wear across multiple tests demonstrate that the consumable braking and suspension components are being worked hard and may soon require replacement. The mileage accumulation also raises the likelihood of wear to less obvious items such as the clutch, timing chain components, engine mounts, and gearbox synchros, all of which would benefit from a thorough mechanical inspection prior to purchase. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the front braking system, as two advisories within twelve months specifically flagged imbalance and thin pads. On a test drive, listen for any grinding or squealing under light pedal pressure, feel for any pulling to one side under firm braking, and check for a spongy or excessively long pedal travel which could indicate worn caliper seals or a master cylinder issue. Inspect the front discs for lipping on the outer edge and look for heat marks or scoring on the pad surfaces. The headlamp alignment issue from early 2025 should be verified to ensure both lamps are properly aimed, as driving with misaligned headlamps reduces forward visibility and risks dazzling oncoming motorists. Additionally, the exhaust system warrants a physical examination underneath the vehicle, paying particular attention to the back box for corrosion and listening for any blowing sounds, rattles, or exhaust gas smells inside the cabin which would suggest a failed joint or perished mounting rubber. Beyond the recorded defects, a seventeen year old Ford Fiesta approaching 160,000 miles should be inspected with calendar-based degradation firmly in mind. Examine all four tyres closely for sidewall perishing or cracking, as old tyres can fail roadworthiness despite possessing adequate tread depth, and verify that none of the recommended fluid services have been neglected. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time and should ideally be renewed every two years, while coolant systems are prone to internal corrosion that may compromise the water pump and thermostat, and engine oil degradation accelerates after long intervals. Lift the bonnet and check the twelve volt battery for any signs of acid leakage or a bulging casing, as batteries of this age are notorious for sudden failure. Finally, place the vehicle on a ramp or use a torch to examine the front and rear axles for any deep corrosion that could compromise structural integrity, push down firmly on each corner to test for worn bushes or weak coil springs, and check for any fluid seepage from the engine sump, power steering rack, or brake calipers, all of which would be entirely consistent with a high mileage example of this vintage.