2009 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · CU09 LDF

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Ford Fiesta occurred in June 2024, resulting in a failure due to a fractured offside rear coil spring, a near-side front tyre with tread depth below the legal minimum, and persistent advisories regarding tyre wear and wiper functionality. This failure follows a pattern of recurring defects, particularly in suspension components and tyres, with multiple advisories and minor failures noted in prior tests. While there were periods of passing MOTs, the overall trend suggests a gradual deterioration in structural integrity and wear-related components, indicating that the vehicle has not received timely servicing to address critical issues. The presence of both major and minor failures highlights a lack of proactive maintenance, which could escalate into more severe mechanical problems if left unaddressed. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 123,339 miles over approximately 17 years represents an average annual usage of around 7,255 miles, which is consistent with typical usage for a car of this age and model. However, the MOT history does not reveal any significant periods of inactivity or unusually high mileage accumulation that would suggest excessive wear on consumables like brakes, tyres, or fluids. The steady mileage rate implies moderate to heavy use, which accelerates wear on suspension elements, track rod joints, and tyres, explaining the recurring advisories and failures observed. While lower mileage could indicate lighter use or prolonged standing, the absence of such gaps in this case suggests the vehicle has been subjected to regular, albeit potentially aggressive, driving conditions. Given the recurring MOT failures and advisories, particularly the offside rear coil spring fracture, excessive play in track rod end ball joints, and corroded brake pipes, the buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the suspension system. On a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the rear suspension, particularly when driving over bumps or at speed, as these may indicate further coil spring or bush wear. Inspect the track rod ends for excessive play or binding, which could lead to misalignment and uneven tyre wear. Check for any signs of fluid leaks around the brake pipes, as corrosion can compromise their structural integrity and cause brake system failures. Additionally, verify that the wheel nuts are securely tightened, as the recent MOT noted a missing nut, which could lead to wheel detachment under stress. Beyond the mechanical issues highlighted by the MOT history, the buyer should also assess the vehicle’s overall condition for signs of age-related wear and potential hidden problems. Given the vehicle’s age, inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with adequate tread depth and may indicate underlying material degradation. Check the 12V battery and associated electrical systems for signs of corrosion on terminals or poor performance, as older vehicles are more susceptible to battery failure due to reduced internal resistance and fluid evaporation. Verify that all fluids—brake, coolant, and transmission—are at the correct levels and free from contamination, as fluid degradation over time can lead to premature component failure. Finally, review the service history for the vehicle, particularly for suspension and brake servicing, to ensure that critical maintenance intervals have been met. If service records are incomplete, consider a professional inspection to confirm the condition of internal components such as brake discs, calipers, and suspension bushes, which may not always be visible during an MOT.