2009 Suzuki Splash 1.2L Petrol · FV09 NVB

The most recent MOT test for this Suzuki Splash occurred in October 2025, where it failed due to a major defect: a fractured or broken near-side front coil spring, classified under 5.3.1 (b) (i). This failure marks a significant deterioration in the vehicle’s suspension system, which is critical for ride quality, steering precision, and structural integrity. While the previous MOT in October 2024 was clean, the pattern of recurring advisories and the sudden major failure in 2025 suggests a deterioration trend rather than a stable maintenance history. The suspension components, particularly the coil spring and associated linkages, have shown progressive wear, with multiple advisories indicating worn bushings and ball joints over the past few years. This indicates that the vehicle has likely undergone significant stress, possibly from prolonged standing in a stationary position or heavy use, which accelerates wear on suspension elements prone to corrosion and fatigue. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 26,250 miles over approximately 17 years translates to an annual usage rate of around 1,544 miles, which is notably low for a car of this age. Such low mileage can result from infrequent use, long periods of inactivity, or environmental factors like exposure to moisture or extreme temperatures, which can exacerbate corrosion and degradation in mechanical components. However, the fact that the vehicle has accumulated only 17 years of use rather than the typical 20–25 years for a similarly aged model suggests that it may have been maintained more conservatively or driven under less demanding conditions. This lower mileage does not necessarily mean the vehicle is in better condition mechanically, as standing can lead to issues such as brake corrosion, fluid stagnation, and rust formation in unprotected areas, all of which are critical to inspect. Given the recent major failure of the near-side front coil spring and the history of suspension-related advisories, the buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front suspension system. On a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the front, particularly when the vehicle is driven over bumps or at low speeds, as these may indicate further wear in the coil spring, bushings, or ball joints. Inspect the coil spring visually for any signs of deformation, rust, or remaining integrity—if it has already failed once, the opposite side may be compromised. Check for uneven tyre wear, which could suggest misalignment or suspension imbalance, and examine the brake system for signs of corrosion on discs, binding calipers, or a spongy brake pedal, which may result from prolonged standing. Additionally, verify that the brake fluid is clear and free of contamination, as standing fluid can degrade over time. The advisories of corroded brake pipes and damaged tyre sidewalls should prompt immediate attention, as corrosion can compromise structural integrity and tyre perishing can lead to blowouts. For the remaining components, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, focus on the tyre condition, particularly for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can weaken the tyre structure and lead to sudden failure. Check the tyre tread depth and look for irregular wear patterns that may indicate alignment or suspension issues. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion, as the low mileage may have allowed moisture to accumulate, accelerating rust formation. Verify that the 12V battery is in good condition, as prolonged disuse can lead to sulphation or terminal corrosion, compromising starting reliability. Finally, ensure that all fluids—brake, coolant, and transmission—are topped up and free from contamination, as standing fluids can degrade over time. If the vehicle has a service history, confirm that the manufacturer-recommended maintenance intervals have been adhered to, particularly for suspension components, as these are prone to wear and failure in older vehicles.