2009 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Diesel · DA59 AXT

The vehicle currently holds a roadworthy certificate but the maintenance history reveals a pattern of reactive rather than preventative care. While the car passed its most recent test in January 2026 at 172,469 miles, it failed just prior due to an excessively worn offside front suspension arm ball joint and a noisy wheel bearing. The trend suggests that components are being pushed to the point of failure, as multiple steering and suspension issues are only addressed once they trigger MOT failures rather than being serviced during annual intervals. At 172,469 miles over 17 years, the Fiesta has averaged approximately 10,145 miles per year, which aligns with with typical annual usage for a vehicle of this age. The record shows steady mileage accumulation with roughly 9,600 miles driven between February 2024 and February 2025, and another 6,644 miles in the following year. This consistent high-frequency use places significant stress on the drivetrain and suspension components, which is reflected in the recurring failures of steering-related hardware. A buyer must conduct a close physical inspection of the front suspension and steering assembly. The history shows persistent issues with ball joints, track rod ends, and steering rack inner joints, which indicate significant wear across the front. The offside front wheel bearing was flagged as noisy, suggesting it is nearing the end of its life. Additionally, the persistent front oil leak noted in 2025 requires a thorough check to determine if it is a minor seal leak or a more costly engine gasket failure. The braking and tyre history also warrants attention. The test in January 2026 flagged rear tyres as worn to the legal limit and on the edge, which often points to alignment issues or neglected basic maintenance. The previous report of a binding nearside rear service brake in 2025 should be re-checked for seized caliper pistons or uneven pad wear. Given the high mileage and the history of distorted road wheels, the structural integrity of the wheels and hubs should be inspected for hairline cracks or impact damage.