2009 Dodge Caliber 2.0L Petrol · KP09 WCD

A recurring theme of corrosion and suspension wear dominates this 2009 Dodge Caliber’s MOT record; the vehicle has repeatedly been flagged for rusted outer‑body sills, excessively worn rear inner suspension rod pins or bushes and oil‑misting front shock absorbers, with the most serious defects appearing in the January 2026 test where both near‑side and off‑side sill sections were deemed insecure. Those major failures were subsequently rectified, allowing a pass on the 28 January 2026 test, but the pattern of advisory items – anti‑roll‑bar linkage ball‑joint play, sub‑frame corrosion and tyre perishing – shows a steady accumulation of age‑related wear rather than an improving trend. At 89,137 mi spread over roughly 17 years the average annual mileage is just over 5,200 mi, well below the typical UK usage rate. Low annual mileage often indicates lighter duty or periods of storage, which can accelerate rubber hardening and promote surface rust, especially on a vehicle of this age. The MOT history shows no long gaps between tests, suggesting the car has been kept on the road consistently, but the modest mileage does not preclude the progressive deterioration evident in the recorded advisories. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the body sills and surrounding structural areas; any flex, audible creak or visible rust beyond superficial coating could indicate that the earlier sill repairs have not fully restored structural integrity. The rear inner suspension rod pins and bushes, flagged as excessively worn in early 2026, should be inspected for lateral play or clunking when the car is driven over bumps, and the front shock absorbers should be examined for oil leakage around the rod seals and for a softened damping feel. The off‑side anti‑roll‑bar linkage ball joint, noted for slight play in 2025, may produce a subtle knocking sensation under cornering loads and should be checked for excessive movement or corrosion at the joint. Tyre condition warrants a thorough visual and tactile check: the previous dangerous tread‑depth failures on the front tyres in early 2022 mean new or near‑new tyres are essential, and the advisory‑level cracking on both rear tyres in 2025 suggests the sidewalls may be perishing, which can lead to sudden loss of pressure. Brake discs were recorded as worn but not excessive in 2023; feel for any pulsation through the pedal or grinding noise that could indicate further thinning. Finally, the rear sub‑frame corrosion noted in 2025, although not yet deemed structurally weakened, should be probed for rust penetration and any looseness in mounting points. A comprehensive mechanical inspection covering these areas will reveal whether the vehicle’s age‑related wear has been adequately remedied or if further remedial work will be required before purchase.