2009 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · LL09 EXZ

The most recent MOT test for this 2009 Ford Fiesta occurred on 2021-11-03, resulting in a passing outcome with two persistent advisories—both relating to the near and offside rear tyres showing signs of cracking or perishing, which is a critical condition under 5.2.3(d)(ii). While this does not represent a failure, the recurring nature of these advisories over multiple MOT cycles suggests a pattern of tyre degradation that warrants immediate attention. The previous MOT failure in 2021-10-27 highlighted a fractured offside front coil spring, a major defect indicating significant suspension wear, and the 2016-12-05 failure pointed to an insecure door hinge and exhaust emissions issues, which collectively suggest that while the vehicle has not failed outright, its maintenance history is not entirely stable. The absence of major failures in the intervening years is positive, but the combination of tyre advisories and the fractured coil spring indicates that the suspension and tyre systems have experienced cumulative stress over time, particularly given the vehicle’s age and mileage. The recorded mileage of 103,098 miles for a 17-year-old Fiesta represents a relatively moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,065 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a vehicle of this age and class. This usage profile suggests that the car has not been subjected to extreme wear from high-mileage driving, but it also implies that the vehicle has spent considerable time either in storage or under lighter operational conditions. The absence of significant gaps in the MOT history, combined with the moderate mileage, does not necessarily indicate poor maintenance, but it does mean that consumables like fluids and wear items may have degraded over time due to prolonged idling or infrequent use. The suspension and tyre wear patterns, however, suggest that the vehicle has experienced some dynamic loading, likely from regular driving, which has accelerated the wear on components like the coil springs and tyres. For a prospective buyer, the most urgent concerns stem from the persistent tyre advisories, which indicate that the rear tyres are at risk of failure if not addressed promptly. The cracking or perishing of tyres can lead to sudden blowouts, posing a significant safety risk, especially on public roads. Before proceeding, the buyer should visually inspect the rear tyres for any further signs of separation, cord exposure, or internal damage, and consider replacing them to the legal minimum tread depth and ensuring they are balanced and aligned. The fractured offside front coil spring from the 2021 MOT failure is a major red flag, as it suggests that the suspension system is compromised and may lead to uneven ride quality, premature wear on other components, or even structural instability under load. A thorough inspection of the suspension should include checking for binding calipers, warped brake discs, and signs of excessive play in the steering column universal joint, which was also noted as slightly worn in the latest MOT. Listen for unusual clunking noises when driving over bumps, and check for uneven tyre wear or a pulling sensation, which could indicate misalignment or suspension issues. Beyond the immediate defects, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle, particularly focusing on areas prone to standing corrosion or fluid degradation due to the vehicle’s age and potential periods of inactivity. Inspect the brake discs and linings for signs of corrosion, binding, or excessive wear, as prolonged standing can cause moisture to penetrate and corrode the metal surfaces. Check the 12V battery for signs of swelling, corrosion on the terminals, or reduced cold-cranking amps, as older batteries may struggle to maintain power, especially in the event of a failed alternator. Fluid levels should be topped up to manufacturer specifications, with particular attention to the brake, coolant, and transmission fluids, as these can degrade over time even with regular use. Finally, verify that the service history is up to date, particularly for the exhaust system, which was flagged in the 2016 MOT for emissions issues, and ensure that the exhaust manifold and catalytic converter are free from leaks or damage. A test drive should include checking for exhaust leaks, unusual noises from the drivetrain or exhaust, and ensuring all indicators and stop lamps function correctly, as the 2021 MOT failures highlighted these as recurring issues. If the buyer is concerned about the exhaust emissions or door hinge, they may also consider having a professional inspection to confirm the vehicle’s compliance with current emissions standards.