2009 KIA Ceed 1.6L Diesel · FN59 VGJ

The most recent DVSA test on 22 October 2025 resulted in a Pass, but it carried several advisories – notably thin rear brake pads, rear brake disc wear and slight discoloration of the side repeaters. Over the last six years the MOT record shows a mixture of passes with recurring advisories and a single failure in October 2024 that was subsequently cleared on re‑test. The pattern indicates a generally stable maintenance regime, yet the same rear‑brake and front‑suspension items reappear year on year, suggesting that wear is being monitored but not yet fully remedied. With 68 728 miles recorded on a 2009 KIA Ceed, the average annual distance is roughly 4 000 miles. This is well below the typical UK usage of 7‑10 000 miles per year and points to either light, infrequent driving or extended periods of storage. Low mileage can be advantageous for engine and transmission wear, but prolonged inactivity often accelerates corrosion of suspension components, rubber ageing and battery depletion. The mileage figure therefore does not mask the age‑related deterioration that the MOT advisories hint at. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the rear braking system. Inspect the rear pads for remaining thickness and the discs for scoring or excessive rust; a thin pad will produce a high‑pitched squeal or a spongy pedal, while a worn disc may cause vibration under braking. The rear coil springs show corrosion on both sides, which can lead to reduced spring rate and uneven ride height – a clunk or a “soft” feel when loading the rear is a typical symptom. Front‑suspension wear is flagged on the inner arm bush and anti‑roll bar bush; listen for knocking or a loose steering feel, especially over bumps, and check for any play by pushing the wheel at the 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock positions. The CV joint boot on the near‑side front driveshaft was noted as severely deteriorated in 2021; any grease leakage or clicking when turning indicates imminent joint failure and should be rectified before further use. Brake hoses with slight ferrule corrosion should be examined for cracks or swelling, as they can lead to fluid loss and reduced braking efficiency. Beyond the specific defects, the vehicle’s age warrants a thorough general inspection. Verify the tyre sidewalls for age‑related cracking – the DOT code should be no more than six years old, and the front tyres were already flagged as close to the legal tread limit in 2023. Examine the chassis and under‑carriage for rust, particularly around the rear suspension mounting points where corrosion was previously recorded. Test the 12 V battery under load; a battery older than three years may struggle after long periods of sitting. Finally, confirm that all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – have been changed within the recommended service intervals, as time‑based degradation can occur even with low mileage. A comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection that addresses these points will give a clear indication of any imminent maintenance costs and the overall roadworthiness of the Ceed.