2009 Fiat Bravo 1.4L Petrol · FH09 DFG

The most recent MOT test for this 2009 Fiat Bravo occurred in November 2021, where it passed with several advisories, including corrosion to the offside rear coil spring and a corroded rear exhaust back box. However, the vehicle also failed in the same month due to the same corrosion issues, alongside a failing windscreen washer system—a recurring major failure noted in previous tests. This pattern suggests a persistent structural and functional degradation in the suspension and exhaust systems, with the coil spring corrosion being particularly concerning as it indicates long-term exposure to moisture and potential long-term structural weakening. The repeated failures of the windscreen washers and exhaust components highlight a lack of consistent maintenance, particularly in areas prone to environmental damage and wear. While the vehicle passed in 2020 and 2019, the presence of multiple minor and major failures in 2018 and 2019 indicates that the vehicle’s condition has not improved over time, and the advisories from 2021 suggest ongoing, unresolved issues that could escalate without intervention. The recorded mileage of 110,743 miles for a vehicle aged 17 years represents an average annual usage of approximately 6,514 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and model. However, the MOT history reveals periods of both low and high mileage accumulation, with significant gaps potentially indicating prolonged idling or storage, which can exacerbate issues like corrosion, fluid degradation, and component dry-rotting. For example, the repeated advisories of oil leaks and deteriorated drive shaft boots suggest that the vehicle was either driven under heavy load or stored in conditions that accelerated wear. The nearside rear tyre failure in 2019 with exposed ply cords is a critical warning sign, indicating severe underinflation, overuse, or improper maintenance, which could have contributed to further structural damage to the tyre and surrounding components. This pattern underscores the importance of addressing wear-related issues promptly to avoid compounding failures in critical systems. Given the vehicle’s age, mileage, and recurring MOT advisories, the buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension and drivetrain components. The corroded rear coil springs and deteriorating drive shaft boots are particularly concerning; during a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the rear suspension, which may indicate further spring failure or bush wear. Inspect the exhaust system for signs of further corrosion, especially around the rear back box and silencer joints, as these failures could lead to emissions non-compliance or structural compromise. Check the brake system for uneven wear, binding calipers, or corrosion on discs and pads, which could result in reduced braking efficiency or premature failure. Additionally, verify that the windscreen washers are functional and that the washer fluid reservoir is full, as this is a recurring major failure point that could impair visibility in adverse conditions. For practical checks beyond the MOT history, the buyer should examine the vehicle’s tyre condition for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with moderate mileage due to prolonged exposure to UV light and temperature fluctuations. Test the 12V battery’s health by ensuring it holds a charge and that all electrical connections are clean and secure, as older vehicles are more susceptible to battery failure from standing or low usage. Inspect the front and rear registration plates for further deterioration, which could affect legal compliance if not replaced. Given the vehicle’s age, the oil and transmission fluids should be checked for colour and consistency—both should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, ideally within the last 12 months, to prevent internal wear and corrosion. Finally, review the service history for any missing or delayed maintenance, particularly for the CV joints, suspension bushes, and exhaust components, as these areas have shown persistent issues. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, consider a more rigorous inspection of the fuel system, water pump, and coolant for signs of dry-rotting or leakage.