2009 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · LL58 VGJ

The most recent MOT, carried out on 30 April 2026, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle currently meets the statutory safety and emissions standards. Over the past seven years the MOT record shows a mixed picture: a serious failure in February 2023 for front brake pads, tyre tread depth and ancillary faults, followed by a clean pass in January 2024 and an advisory for a minor tyre damage in March 2024. Since then the car has achieved two consecutive clean passes (January 2025 and April 2026), suggesting that the owner has addressed the critical issues and that the overall maintenance trend is now stabilising rather than deteriorating. With 72,877 miles logged on a 2009 model, the average annual mileage works out at roughly 4,300 miles per year, which is well below the typical UK usage pattern for a vehicle of this age. Such low utilisation often points to long periods of inactivity or very gentle use, which can be a double‑edged sword: while wear on high‑stress components such as the engine, gearbox and suspension may be modest, age‑related degradation of rubber, plastics and metal can progress unnoticed. Potential concerns include tyre sidewall cracking, perished seals, battery capacity loss and corrosion of brake discs or exhaust components that arise from prolonged standing. When inspecting the car, give particular attention to the tyre condition. The front‑nearside tyre failed a tread‑depth check in 2023 and the rear‑nearside tyre was flagged for damage in 2024; verify that all four tyres have at least 1.6 mm tread across the full width, no sidewall bulges, and no dry‑rot or cracking that can develop on low‑mileage, ageing tyres. Examine the brake system thoroughly: the front pads were dangerously thin in 2023, so confirm that they have been replaced and that the pads now measure well above the 3 mm safety limit. Listen for any squeal, shudder or pulsation when applying the brakes, and inspect the front discs for scoring or pitting that was noted as an advisory in 2020. The steering rack inner joint was flagged for play in 2020; a loose or noisy steering feel, especially when turning at low speed, could indicate that the rack bushings are wearing and may need replacement. Beyond the items recorded on the MOT, conduct age‑appropriate checks. Test the 12 V battery under load and look for signs of sulphation or leaking electrolyte, as batteries can lose capacity after years of sitting. Inspect the suspension bushes, ball joints and coil springs for cracks, corrosion or excessive play, which can manifest as clunking over bumps. Verify that the windscreen washer system now functions correctly, as a non‑working washer was a major fault in 2023. Finally, confirm that the coolant, brake fluid and engine oil have been changed at regular intervals – fluids degrade with time even when the car is not driven much – and look for any leaks around the engine bay, exhaust manifold or rear subframe that could indicate corrosion or gasket failure. A thorough test drive listening for unusual noises, checking for smooth steering response and ensuring all lights and warning indicators operate will give a clear picture of the car’s current roadworthiness before committing to purchase.