2009 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Petrol · EY59 HRX

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 11 May 2026, although this followed an initial failure. The overall maintenance trend appears to be worsening, as the most recent test has generated a significant list of advisories concerning the tyres, steering, and exhaust system, whereas the previous year's test was entirely clean. This suggests a period of neglect or the natural onset of age-related degradation that is now manifesting across multiple systems simultaneously. With a recorded mileage of 65,531 miles over seventeen years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 3,855 miles per year. This is considerably lower than the national average for a vehicle of this age. While low mileage typically suggests less mechanical wear on the engine and gearbox, it often indicates long periods of standing. Such usage patterns frequently lead to the perishing of rubber components and the accumulation of surface corrosion on brake discs and exhaust systems, which is clearly reflected in the recent MOT history. The current advisories highlight a critical need to inspect the tyres, as three are noted as cracking or perishing. This is a classic symptom of age-related rubber degradation rather than tread wear and represents a potential safety risk. During a test drive, pay close attention to the steering feel; play in the steering rack inner joints can manifest as a vague sensation in the steering wheel or a slight knocking sound when turning at low speeds. Additionally, the deteriorated exhaust flexi-pipe and general corrosion should be inspected for leaks or excessive noise, as a failing flexi-pipe can lead to exhaust gas leaks and increased vibration throughout the cabin. Given the history of perishing rear axle bushes and previous play in the suspension arm ball joints, the buyer should listen for clunks or knocks when driving over uneven surfaces. The previous mention of pitted and scored brake discs suggests that the vehicle may have suffered from binding calipers or surface oxidation due to inactivity. Ensure the brakes feel firm and do not shudder under deceleration. Finally, due to the low annual mileage, verify the service history to ensure that engine oil and other fluids have been changed based on calendar intervals rather than mileage, and check the 12V battery health, as infrequent use often shortens battery lifespan.