2009 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · EY09 MLX

The most recent DVSA examination on 2 August 2023 returned a Pass, although a clear advisory pattern surrounds the outcome. Across the 2022 and 2023 tests there are recurring references to road wheel distortion affecting all four corners, with the nearside front, nearside rear, and offside rear specifically flagged in 2023 and the 2021 record noting distortion on all four. This persistent defect indicates that the wheels have suffered impact damage, most likely from kerbing or pothole strikes, and although not a failure item at this stage, progressively distorted wheels can cause vibration through the steering, uneven tyre wear, and difficulty balancing. The 2023 test also recorded a Major failure on the previous day for rear brake imbalance across an axle, which was corrected before the pass; this suggests intermittent brake issues rather than a fully resolved repair, and the buyer should be alert to any pulling sensation, grinding, or uneven pedal feel. Recorded mileage of 97,925 miles over approximately 17 years equates to around 5,760 miles annually, which is well below average for a vehicle of this age and points to either light general use or extended periods of standing. Low annual mileage with this much accumulated wear suggests the car has been in regular but modest service rather than having long periods of inactivity, although a clear inspection of the brake calipers and discs for seizure or surface corrosion from infrequent use is still worthwhile. The mileage gaps between MOT tests are modest, and there is no evidence of rapid accumulation that would suggest motorway commuting or fleet-style use. Looking back through the history, the 2019 test produced the most serious items, including a Dangerous nearside tyre bulge caused by structural failure, a major defect on the front headlamp for being insecure and broken, a wiper effectiveness failure, an engine misfire advisory, and a front brake imbalance major. While these were all addressed at the time, they collectively indicate a period where mechanical attention lapsed. The 2020 test picked up a driveshaft seal oil leak on the offside, front and rear tyre wear advisories on both sides, and a distorted nearside front wheel. By 2022 a deteriorated nearside front suspension arm ball joint dust cover was recorded, along with pitted front brake discs, a missing rear brake pipe clip, and the recurring offside front headlamp lens product issue. A buyer should pay particular attention to the ball joint itself, as a perished dust cover allows contamination ingress and accelerated wear of the joint; listen for clunks over speed bumps and check for uneven front tyre wear. Given the age of the vehicle, a thorough physical inspection is strongly advised regardless of the MOT record. Check all tyre sidewalls for perishing and cracking from age, even where tread depth appears adequate, and inspect the spare if present. Examine the underside and suspension components for corrosion, particularly given the standing periods implied by low annual mileage, and verify the condition of brake discs for rust pitting or binding calipers that may have seized during inactivity. Confirm that all fluid services, including brake fluid, coolant, and the 12V battery, have been carried out within their calendar intervals rather than purely by mileage. Finally, verify a continuous service history record and ensure the engine misfire previously noted has been fully diagnosed and rectified, as unresolved ignition or fuelling issues can lead to catalytic converter damage and increased exhaust emissions over time.