2009 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Diesel · AV09 UGP

A recurring electrical defect affecting the front lighting circuit is the defining mechanical theme of this 2009 Ford Fiesta's MOT record. On the same day in November 2025, the vehicle passed after a re-test and failed on the original inspection, with major defects recorded for an inoperative offside front position lamp, an untestable headlamp aim, and a non-functioning nearside front dipped beam. A near-identical lighting failure appeared in October 2024, when the nearside front position lamp and offside front dipped beam were both flagged as not working, alongside a failed front windscreen washer and a major defect for an excessively worn nearside front suspension arm ball joint. The persistence of front lamp defects across two consecutive tests strongly suggests an underlying wiring, earth, or switch fault rather than a one-off bulb failure, and the 2024 ball joint defect is a significant mechanical concern on a 17-year-old supermini. The 2025 test also recorded a low coolant level advisory, which warrants visual inspection of the cooling system for leaks before purchase. With 146,134 miles accumulated over 17 years, the Fiesta has averaged roughly 8,600 miles per year, which is broadly consistent with typical commuter use and is not in itself a red flag. The mileage record shows continuous annual testing from 2020 onwards with no apparent lay-up gaps, indicating the vehicle has been in regular service. At this mileage and age, attention should be directed towards components subject to progressive wear rather than age-related deterioration alone, including the clutch, dual-mass flywheel if applicable, engine mounts, and the cooling system referenced in the November 2025 advisory. Earlier advisories for front inner brake disc wear and an offside front binding service brake recorded in October 2021 suggest the caliper guide pins or slider mechanism may have been subject to stick-up, a common Fiesta issue that can produce uneven pad wear and pulling under braking. Given the history of front suspension and steering component wear flagged in 2023 and 2024, the nearside front suspension arm ball joint that failed with a major defect in 2024 is the most important item to verify on inspection. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven road surfaces, particularly under braking, and check for uneven front tyre wear as a secondary indicator of worn bushes or joints. The 2023 advisory for play in the steering rack inner joint on the offside front should also be monitored by turning the wheel lock to lock while stationary and feeling for any slack or knocking through the rack. Inspect the nearside front ball joint physically by levering under the wheel with the car raised, looking for any vertical movement at the joint. The lighting issues warrant a dedicated electrical check rather than a simple bulb replacement. With the ignition on, walk around the front of the vehicle confirming both dipped beams, both position lamps, and the registration plate illumination are all functioning, and observe whether the headlamp aim appears symmetrical, as the 2025 test could not verify aim. On the cooling system, check the header tank level with the engine cold and inspect the radiator, hoses, and water pump area for any seepage that could explain the low coolant advisory, bearing in mind that coolant loss can be associated with head gasket failure on higher-mileage Fiestas. Finally, given the binding brake noted in 2021, perform a series of moderate stops from around 30 mph and feel for any pulling to one side, vibration through the pedal, or a brake that fails to release cleanly, any of which would warrant a caliper strip-down.