2009 Chevrolet Matiz 0.8L Petrol · HW59 FWH

The 2009 Chevrolet Matiz currently holds a valid MOT, having passed on 18 March 2026 at 31,341 miles with zero defects recorded. That clean result followed a failure on the same day, where the tester flagged both windscreen wipers and three tyres with exposed ply or cords. The immediate retest pass indicates those items were replaced or repaired promptly, suggesting the previous owner addressed the failures rather than ignoring them. The maintenance trend over the past three years is broadly stable, with no recurring mechanical or structural defects appearing across consecutive annual tests. The mileage pattern tells a clear story of very low usage. Between the March 2023 test at 30,250 miles and the March 2026 test at 31,341 miles, the car covered just 1,091 miles over three years, averaging roughly 364 miles per year in that window. Over its full seventeen-year life, the total of 31,341 miles works out to approximately 1,844 miles annually, which is well below typical UK averages. Such low mileage can mean reduced wear on brakes, suspension bushes, and drivetrain components, but it also raises the possibility of prolonged standing, which can cause tyre perishing, seized brake calipers, and stale fuel issues. The 2025 advisory on perishing front and rear tyres supports that interpretation, as rubber deteriorates with age and lack of use regardless of tread depth. A buyer should focus the in-person inspection on areas that low-mileage, long-term parking tends to affect. Check all four tyres for date codes and sidewall cracking, even though the most recent test passed, since the 2025 advisory and the March 2026 failure both point to recurring tyre deterioration. Inspect the front and rear brake discs and calipers for surface corrosion and binding, as infrequent use often leads to sticking calipers and uneven disc wear. Examine the underside for structural corrosion, particularly around suspension mounting points, sills, and subframes, noting that the 2024 test flagged undertrays preventing full inspection, which means a buyer should ideally request removal of covers before viewing. Test the windscreen washers and wiper linkage operation, and check the exhaust system for corrosion given the car's age. The engine should be assessed for smooth cold starting and any signs of fuel system issues from extended standing periods.