2009 Ford Fiesta 1.2L Petrol · FX59 FLL

The most recent DVSA MOT test, conducted on 27 November 2025, resulted in a pass with no defects recorded, which represents a positive turnaround from the failures recorded just a week earlier on 20 November and in October 2025. However, when reviewing the overall trend, the maintenance history suggests this vehicle is presenting a mixed picture. The 2025 failures covered a broad range of major mechanical issues including brake pedal travel, fluctuating service brake effort, an offside parking brake that was inoperative on one side, parking brake efficiency below the required minimum, and an exhaust Lambda reading outside specified limits after the second fast idle. Together these items point to simultaneous wear in the foundation brake system, the handbrake mechanism, and the engine management or catalyst function. The fact that the November pass followed so soon after the October failure indicates that the braking and exhaust concerns were addressed prior to the subsequent test, but a prospective buyer should be cautious about the depth of the remedial work carried out, as significant brake and exhaust repairs typically involve substantial cost. With a recorded mileage of 116,534 miles on a 2009 Ford Fiesta, the vehicle has covered approximately 6,855 miles annually, which sits broadly within typical expectations for a car of this age. The MOT records suggest reasonably consistent use with no obvious long gaps in motoring, which is generally favourable for preventing the standing-related issues such as seized calipers, brake disc corrosion, and perished rubber components that afflict low-use vehicles. That said, the absolute mileage places the Fiesta well into the high-wear bracket for suspension, steering, and braking consumables, and any services or component renewals not accompanied by corresponding mileage progression in the records should be carefully verified through the service book and supporting invoices. The defect history from 2022 through 2024 reveals several recurring advisories and previously failed items that warrant close physical inspection. Coil spring corrosion was flagged at both rear corners in 2023 and 2024, and at all four corners by 2024, suggesting progressive structural deterioration that will inevitably progress to fracture. On a test drive, listen for clonks or knocks over bumps, particularly at low speed, and inspect the springs visually for visible cracking, scaling, or section loss. The nearside rear shock absorber was first noted with light oil misting in 2024 and then recorded as having a serious fluid leak by September 2023, indicating deterioration has been ongoing; check for dampness or streaking on the shock body and expect a worsening ride quality, particularly over undulating surfaces. The track rod end ball joint was flagged with slight play on the nearside in 2022, and a serious excessive play failure was recorded on the offside in 2023, demonstrating progressive wear in the steering linkage. On test, listen for any knocking from the front wheels during full-lock manoeuvres and on uneven road surfaces, and expect vague or wandering steering if the joint has reached the end of its service life. The 2024 advisory regarding a binding nearside front service brake that was not yet considered excessive also warrants attention, as binding calipers typically worsen with time and lead to uneven brake pad wear, elevated fuel consumption, and pulling to one side under braking. Beyond the recorded defects, several age- and mileage-related items merit inspection on a 17-year-old Fiesta. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall cracking and perishing caused by UV exposure over many years, even where tread depth appears adequate, and the spare wheel or repair kit should be checked for condition. The 12-volt battery is likely approaching the end of its useful life and should be load tested, particularly given the recent inoperative parking brake and brake pedal travel issues which can sometimes be traced back to marginal electrical supply. Brake discs should be inspected for corrosion lips at the friction edge, and the caliper guide pins and pistons checked for smooth operation, as the binding advisory from 2024 suggests the offside front may already be at risk. All fluids including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid should be evaluated for condition and service intervals; brake fluid is hygroscopic and should be renewed on a calendar basis regardless of mileage. Finally, given the failed Lambda sensor reading in October 2025, verify that the exhaust system has been inspected for cracks or deteriorated mounting rubbers, and confirm that the catalyst has not been replaced with a non-compliant pattern item, which could compromise both emissions compliance and future MOT results.