2009 Ford Fiesta 1.6L Diesel · FN59 HPC

The most recent DVSA examination dated 24 July 2025 records a PASS with no defects or advisories recorded against the vehicle, which represents a positive immediate indicator of roadworthiness. Looking at the broader history, the vehicle has demonstrated a stable and consistent maintenance pattern, having passed on 20 July 2023, 1 April 2022, and twice in mid-2024. The single failed entry on 17 July 2024 is immediately followed by a pass on the same date, indicating that any issues identified at that examination were rectified promptly and did not present a structural or persistent mechanical concern. The absence of recurring advisories across these tests suggests that core safety-related systems including suspension, braking, lighting, and exhaust emissions have remained within statutory limits without the need for advisory attention, which is a favourable sign for a vehicle of this age and mileage. With 133,985 miles recorded over approximately 17 years, this Ford Fiesta has averaged around 7,881 miles annually, which sits broadly in line with typical usage for a supermini of its era. This moderate annual accumulation suggests the vehicle has been used consistently rather than subjected to extreme short-journey stop-start wear or, conversely, left standing for prolonged periods. Consistent mileage of this nature tends to allow components to reach and maintain operating temperature regularly, which is beneficial for engine oil longevity, exhaust moisture evacuation, and battery charging cycles. However, 133,985 miles is a substantial absolute figure, and certain drivetrain and chassis components will inevitably be approaching or past their expected service life even if they have not yet triggered advisory attention. Given the clean advisory history but the vehicle's age and accumulated mileage, a prospective buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection focused on components that deteriorate with calendar age as well as use. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall perishing and cracking, which commonly affect vehicles of this vintage regardless of tread depth, and the production date code on the sidewall should be checked to confirm the rubber is not excessively aged. Brake discs should be inspected for lipping, corrosion pitting, and uneven wear, while calipers and rear drum mechanisms should be checked for seizing, particularly given that the Fiesta is known for binding caliper issues. Under the bonnet, the 12V battery should be load-tested, as batteries beyond five years of age frequently exhibit reduced cranking performance. Coolant, brake fluid, and gearbox oil should be assessed for time-based degradation, with brake fluid ideally replaced every two years regardless of mileage due to its hygroscopic nature. The condition of the cambelt and water pump replacement history should be verified, as these are critical service items on the older Sigma and Zetec engines fitted to this generation of Fiesta. On a test drive, particular attention should be paid to any suspension clonks or knocking over uneven surfaces, which may indicate worn anti-roll bar drop links, strut top mount bearings, or lower suspension bushes, all common wear items at this mileage. Steering should be checked for vagueness or knocking, which could point to track rod end deterioration or worn wishbone bushes. The gearbox should be evaluated for any grating sensation during gear changes, particularly in lower ratios, and the clutch should be assessed for slip under load or any juddering on take-off. Listen for any whining from the drivetrain that may suggest differential or transmission wear, and observe exhaust behaviour for excessive smoke on start-up or under acceleration. Finally, ensure the vehicle is presented with documented service history including cambelt replacement intervals, as the absence of such records for a 17-year-old vehicle with this mileage would represent a significant risk irrespective of its clean MOT record.