2009 KIA Ceed 1.6L Petrol · LL59 HLF

A pattern of progressive underbody corrosion sits at the heart of this 2009 Kia Ceed's MOT record, and the most recent test on 11 June 2026 underlines that trajectory with advisories against both the front and rear sub-frames for corrosion not considered seriously weakened, alongside a corroded rear coil spring. This was a pass, but the broader history shows a vehicle that has been accumulating rust-related observations rather than moving past them. The 2024 test noted that all underbody components were corroded, and the 2026 entry effectively confirms the sub-frames are now showing visible surface deterioration. With no recorded structural failure to date, the car remains roadworthy, but the trajectory warrants close physical inspection of the suspension mounting points, anti-roll bar linkages, and spring seats for any movement beyond what the test station has accepted. The recorded mileage of 90,804 against a 17-year-old vehicle equates to roughly 5,341 miles per year, which is unusually low for a car of this age and may indicate extended periods of standing rather than regular use. The annual MOT records are consistent and roughly twelve months apart, with no testing gaps suggesting the vehicle was off the road, but the low annual accumulation means items prone to drying out or seizing, such as the nearside rear brake that was noted as binding in 2020, may not have been exercised frequently. The drive shaft CV boot has also deteriorated on more than one occasion, appearing as an advisory in 2021 and as a minor defect in 2025, which is a common consequence of vehicles that sit for prolonged periods between uses rather than covering consistent mileage. A prospective buyer should focus the physical inspection on the underbody condition flagged in the 2024 and 2026 tests. The sub-frames should be examined on a ramp or over a pit for any flaking that has progressed beyond surface corrosion, particularly around suspension arm mounting points and the rear spring seats, as the recorded advisories suggest the protective coatings are breaking down. The rear coil spring itself should be inspected for any loss of section thickness or cracking at the base coils, and the exhaust system warrants a check given the minor gas leak noted at the central front section in 2025. During a test drive, listen for any clonks or knocks from the suspension over uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn or seized bushes compounding the corrosion, and feel for any pulling under braking that could indicate a binding caliper, recalling the 2020 advisory on the nearside rear service brake. The 2023 failed test for a non-functioning nearside headlamp dipped beam is a relatively isolated electrical event, but it is worth confirming that the bulb, connector, and wiring are in sound condition and that no dashboard warning lights remain illuminated on start-up. The minor oil leak noted in 2023 should be monitored by checking the underbonnet for fresh residue around the engine and rocker cover gasket, and by inspecting the underside after the car has been parked for signs of active drips. With the 2024 advisory on all-round brake disc wear, the discs and pads should be measured for remaining material, and a firm pedal without judder should be confirmed on the road. Given the documented sub-frame corrosion, it would also be prudent to budget for potential suspension component replacement if the advisories progress at the next test, as rust of this nature tends to accelerate once surface protection has failed.