2009 Suzuki Alto 1.0L Petrol · LM59 RKA

The 2009 Suzuki Alto’s most recent MOT test on 2026-07-06 resulted in a failure, with three major defects recorded: ineffective near-side and offside windscreen wipers, and a compromised near-side front outer drive shaft constant velocity (CV) boot allowing dirt ingress. This marks a significant deviation from the vehicle’s previous MOT history, which had consistently passed or shown only minor advisories over the preceding five years. The failure pattern suggests either a failure to address previous issues or underlying wear that has progressed beyond the test’s threshold, particularly in the CV joint and wiper mechanisms. While the 2024 failure included advisories on tyre damage and a non-functional washer, the current failures are more severe and directly impact roadworthiness, indicating that the vehicle has not been adequately maintained to date. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 49,265 miles over approximately 17 years equates to roughly 2,898 miles per year—a notably low annual usage rate for a car of this age. Such low mileage often reflects periods of prolonged inactivity, which can exacerbate issues like standing corrosion, fluid degradation, and component wear from static stress. For example, brakes may develop corrosion or binding calipers due to prolonged idling, and suspension components like coil springs or bushes can stiffen or fail from lack of movement. Additionally, fluids such as brake fluid and coolant degrade over time regardless of usage, so even infrequent driving demands attention to their condition. The absence of higher mileage accumulation suggests that while the vehicle may be well-suited to light, infrequent use, it has not been subjected to the wear and tear typical of higher-mileage, more active vehicles. To proceed with a thorough inspection, the prospective buyer should prioritise checking the CV joint and associated drive shaft for signs of excessive play, unusual noises (such as clunking or whining), or oil leaks around the boot seal. The wiper blades and mechanisms should be tested for responsiveness, with a focus on whether they leave streaks or fail to clear the windscreen effectively, as this could indicate worn rubber or mechanical failure. On a test drive, listen for any irregularities in the drivetrain, such as grinding or rattling noises from the CV joint, which may signal joint wear or boot failure. Additionally, inspect the rear tyres for uneven wear patterns or cracks in the sidewall or tread, as the previous advisories on tyre damage suggest potential underlying issues with alignment or suspension wear. For age-and-mileage-appropriate checks, the buyer should examine the vehicle’s tyres for signs of perishing, such as cracking or delamination in the sidewall, which can compromise structural integrity and safety. The brake system should be inspected for corrosion on discs and linings, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, as standing corrosion can cause binding or reduced braking effectiveness. The 12V battery should be tested for voltage output and overall health, as low usage can lead to sulphation or weak terminals. Fluid levels, including brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, should be checked for contamination or sludge, with a reminder that these fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. Finally, the registration plate should be verified for any damage that could affect legality, and the vehicle’s service history should be reviewed to ensure compliance with manufacturer-recommended maintenance intervals, such as timing belt replacement or suspension component servicing.