2009 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Diesel · LE04 ABE

The latest MOT test conducted on 15 September 2025 resulted in a pass with no defects recorded. The overall maintenance trend appears stable and consistent, as the vehicle has maintained a clean pass record since 2022. Although a failure was noted on 18 September 2024, the immediate pass on the same date suggests that any necessary repairs were addressed promptly to meet safety standards. The absence of recurring advisories in the recent history is a positive indicator of the vehicle's ongoing roadworthiness. With 82,219 miles recorded, this Ford Fiesta has covered a relatively low distance for a 17-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 4,836 miles per year. This pattern of usage suggests the car has likely been used for short local trips or has experienced periods of inactivity. While low mileage typically means less wear on the engine internals and transmission, it can also mean that certain mechanical components have not been regularly operated, which can lead to specific issues related to age and chemical degradation rather than distance travelled. Given the clean MOT history and low mileage, your physical inspection should prioritise age-related degradation over mechanical wear. Carefully inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, as rubber components can lose elasticity over time even if the tread remains deep. Check the brake discs for heavy corrosion or pitting, which often occurs when a vehicle is not driven frequently, and listen for any signs of binding calipers or brake shudder during your test drive. It is essential to confirm that the vehicle has been serviced based on time intervals rather than just mileage, as oil and other fluids degrade chemically over time regardless of how many miles the car has covered. You should also examine the condition of the suspension bushes, engine mounts, and various rubber hoses, as these are prone to becoming brittle and cracking with age. During the test drive, listen for any knocks or clunks from the suspension system that might indicate perished bushes or weakened coil springs. Additionally, check the health of the 12V battery, as low-usage vehicles are susceptible to battery degradation from sitting idle. Finally, verify the service book for regular maintenance stamps to ensure the vehicle has received the necessary care to prevent the side effects of long-term standing.