2009 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · AP09 HFD

The most recent MOT test on 2026-01-13 resulted in a failure, with two major issues—an oil leak that was not excessive but still required attention, and a functional failure of the front passenger door locking mechanism from the outside. This follows a pattern of recurring MOT failures over the past three years, particularly in suspension components, lighting systems, and minor mechanical issues such as the oil leak and registration plate lamp failures. While the vehicle passed in 2023 and 2025, the persistent presence of worn suspension ball joints, leaking oil, and electrical faults suggests a trend of deferred maintenance or underlying wear that has not been fully addressed. The combination of these repeated failures indicates a need for proactive mechanical servicing before further deterioration compromises roadworthiness or safety. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 123,850 miles for a 2009 Fiesta represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,285 miles per year, which is typical for its age but not exceptionally low. Lower mileage might reflect periods of inactivity or light use, potentially leading to issues like standing corrosion on brake discs, caliper binding, or fluid degradation from stagnation. Conversely, higher mileage would accelerate wear on consumables such as brake pads, suspension bushes, and oil consumption components. Given the recent MOT history, the oil leak and suspension ball joint failures suggest that the vehicle has been subjected to significant mechanical stress, possibly from rough driving or neglecting routine servicing intervals. The presence of these issues warrants a thorough inspection to assess the extent of wear progression and to prevent potential failures that could compromise handling or safety. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect include the suspension system, particularly the front ball joints and control arms, which have failed MOT tests multiple times. Listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises during cornering or over bumps, as these often indicate worn or broken suspension components. The oil leak should be investigated further—check under the vehicle for persistent oil pooling, especially around the engine bay or transmission area, and verify that the oil consumption is not excessive. Inspect the front passenger door mechanism for smooth operation and ensure there are no signs of binding or misalignment, as this could lead to further electrical or structural issues. Additionally, examine the brake system for uneven wear, corrosion on discs, or binding calipers, which may have been exacerbated by prolonged standing or previous failures. Beyond mechanical checks, the vehicle’s age and mileage necessitate a comprehensive inspection of high-wear and time-sensitive components. Given the recorded mileage and the presence of an oil leak, ensure the engine oil and filter are up to date, and consider a full fluid top-up, including brake fluid, coolant, and power steering fluid, as these degrade over time even without use. Check the tyre tread depth and sidewall condition for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise structural integrity and safety, particularly in older vehicles. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the 12V system is functioning correctly, as electrical faults have been a recurring issue in the MOT history. Finally, verify that the service book or maintenance records are up to date, as the Fiesta’s 2009 model year typically requires scheduled oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles and suspension servicing every 15,000 to 20,000 miles. A thorough test drive should also include checking for exhaust emissions compliance, as emissions-related failures have not been recorded but could become an issue if the vehicle is driven frequently or if catalytic converter efficiency declines with age.