2009 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · FR09 MJC

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 23 October 2025 with no defects recorded. Looking at the broader maintenance history, the trend is positive and demonstrates an improving standard of upkeep. Although the vehicle recorded several advisories between 2020 and 2022, specifically concerning coil spring corrosion, an oil leak, and tyre degradation, the subsequent three years of clean MOT certificates suggest that these issues have been successfully rectified. This indicates a proactive approach to maintenance by the previous keeper. With 71,811 miles recorded over approximately 17 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 4,224 miles per year. This is exceptionally low usage for a vehicle of this age. While this low mileage implies less mechanical wear on the engine, gearbox, and suspension components, it also suggests the car may have spent significant periods stationary. Low-use vehicles are susceptible to age-related degradation that is independent of mileage, such as the hardening of rubber components and the settling of fluids. During your inspection and test drive, you should pay close attention to components that suffer from age rather than distance. Inspect the tyre sidewalls thoroughly for any signs of cracking or perishing, as older rubber can lose its structural integrity even if the tread depth remains high. Check the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion or signs of binding calipers, which can occur when a vehicle is not driven frequently enough to clear debris and heat. You should also listen for any rattles or vibrations from the exhaust system, as a previous advisory noted a loose heat shield, and check the engine bay for any signs of fresh oil weeping to ensure the previous oil leak advisory has been fully resolved. Furthermore, because the vehicle has been driven infrequently, it is vital to verify the service history for time-based maintenance rather than just mileage-based intervals. Ensure that essential fluids, such as brake fluid, engine coolant, and oil, have been changed according to the calendar to prevent degradation. It is also advisable to test the 12V battery health, as long periods of inactivity can lead to capacity loss. Finally, despite the recent clean MOT, a visual check of the rear coil springs for any signs of returning corrosion or structural weakness is recommended to ensure the long-term integrity of the suspension system.