2009 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · LL09 YLU

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Ford Fiesta recorded a passing result on 2026-03-30, following a previous failure in the same month for issues related to the rear windscreen washer and front headlamp aim. While the vehicle has not failed an MOT since 2024, the historical pattern reveals recurring advisories—particularly concerning the rear coil springs, which were flagged as corroded in two separate tests—suggesting a persistent mechanical concern that may require attention. The presence of headlamp alignment failures in 2025 and 2026 indicates a potential need for recalibration or adjustment, while the tyre sidewall perishing and corrosion advisories from 2025 highlight wear that could escalate if ignored, especially given the vehicle’s age. These trends collectively suggest a maintenance profile that has not been entirely stable, with some recurring issues warranting closer scrutiny before proceeding with purchase. The recorded mileage of 52,390 miles for a 17-year-old Fiesta represents a notably low annual usage rate of approximately 3,082 miles per year, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age and model. Such low mileage often correlates with prolonged periods of inactivity, during which components like brakes, suspension, and fluids may degrade more rapidly due to standing or lack of dynamic operation. For instance, standing brakes can lead to corrosion on brake discs or binding calipers, while suspension components like coil springs and track rod ends can suffer from rust or wear when unused for extended periods. Additionally, fluids such as brake fluid and coolant can degrade over time without regular use, potentially compromising performance or safety. The low mileage also raises questions about whether the vehicle has been subjected to rigorous or varied driving conditions, which could mask underlying wear issues that might become apparent under heavier use. To conduct a thorough physical inspection of this vehicle, the prospective buyer should prioritise checks for tyre integrity, as the 2025 MOT advisories indicate sidewall cracking or perishing, which can compromise road grip and safety. Inspect the tyres for any signs of dry rot, particularly on the rear tyres, and measure tread depth to ensure compliance with legal limits. The suspension system, particularly the rear coil springs, shows evidence of corrosion in past MOTs, so visually inspect the springs for rust, cracks, or signs of failure, and listen for unusual clunking noises when driving over bumps, which may indicate worn or damaged suspension bushes or broken spring mounts. Additionally, check the brake system for corrosion on discs and linings, especially near the rear, where standing corrosion is more likely to occur. Test the brakes for binding or excessive sponginess, and verify that the parking brake engages smoothly without excessive wear. The 12V battery should be tested for voltage and capacity, as low-mileage vehicles can suffer from battery degradation due to prolonged disuse. A weak battery may result in difficulty starting the engine or electrical system failures. The exhaust system’s corrosion advisory from 2025 suggests potential structural weaknesses, so visually inspect the exhaust for rust, cracks, or leaks, and listen for unusual noises or backpressure, which could indicate exhaust system failure. The front headlamps’ alignment issues from past MOTs may require recalibration, so ensure they are properly adjusted for optimal visibility. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a service in recent years, consider checking the service book for any scheduled maintenance, such as fluid top-ups, filter replacements, or timing belt inspections, which are critical for a 17-year-old car. If no service records are available, a professional inspection should confirm the condition of time-sensitive components like the timing belt, water pump, and suspension components, as these may require replacement before they fail catastrophically.