2009 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · LR09 EHC

A pattern of subframe and suspension corrosion dominates the mechanical history of this 2009 Ford Fiesta, with advisories appearing in 2022 and 2023 relating to front subframe, rear subframe, nearside front suspension arm, and now an offside rear coil spring showing corrosion at the 2026 test. The most recent MOT on 8 July 2026 was a pass, alongside earlier rear direction indicator discolouration advisories that have recurred across 2025 and 2026. The 2024 test required a partial retest after both headlamp aim readings were flagged as too low, while the 2021 test recorded a major failure for a fractured offside front coil spring. The overall trajectory shows a vehicle that continues to pass but accumulates structural and suspension advisories with each annual test, indicating a car requiring ongoing attention to its underbody and chassis components rather than one with a consistently clean record. With 78,963 miles recorded over 17 years, this Fiesta has averaged roughly 4,645 miles annually, a notably low accumulation rate that places it well below typical usage for a vehicle of this age. MOT testing has occurred consistently on an annual basis since at least 2021, with no significant gaps in the recorded history, suggesting the vehicle has remained in regular use rather than being laid up for extended periods. Low annual mileage of this nature tends to reduce wear on high-cycle components such as the clutch, engine internals, and gearbox, though it can accelerate deterioration of rubber items, brake discs, and underbody finishes through prolonged exposure to moisture without the protective effect of regular warm operation. The relatively static mileage between tests is consistent with short-trip, light-duty use rather than sustained high-mileage running. A prospective buyer should focus the physical inspection on the suspension and underbody areas that have been repeatedly flagged. The recurring front brake disc advisories from 2021 and 2022 warrant a check for scoring, lipping, and pulsation under braking, while the 2023 subframe corrosion advisory and the 2026 coil spring corrosion advisory point to a chassis that requires close visual examination for surface rust, flaking, and any signs of structural weakening around mounting points and spring seats. The offside front coil spring fracture recorded in 2021 means the replacement spring and surrounding components should be inspected for correct seating and signs of subsequent wear. The lower suspension arm ball joint play noted in 2025 requires physical verification by rocking the wheel at nine and three o clock to detect any clonking or movement, and the front tyres flagged as worn to the legal limit in 2024 should be checked for current tread depth, uneven shoulder wear suggesting alignment issues, and any sidewall cracking consistent with age-related perishing. On a road test, particular attention should be paid to any knocking or rattling from the front end over uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn bushes, drop links, or anti-roll bar components given the documented history of suspension wear. Steering should feel precise without excess play or pulling to one side, and the front brake pedal should be firm without judder or vibration that would confirm disc runout. The headlamp aim issues recorded in 2024 should be rechecked on a level surface to confirm both lamps are correctly aligned, as incorrect loading or aftermarket bulb replacements can quickly disturb the beam pattern. The obligatory mirror flagged as slightly loose in 2024 should be confirmed as secure, and the rear direction indicators inspected for any remaining lens discolouration or water ingress that might compromise their visibility. Given the cumulative pattern of advisories relating to structural and suspension components, an elevated inspection platform check of the underbody would be advisable before purchase.