2009 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · LR09 WTC

A clean and consistent MOT record across four consecutive test cycles, with the most recent pass on 30 June 2025 returning no recorded defects or advisories, establishes a sound baseline of roadworthiness for this 2009 Ford Fiesta. The absence of advisories is particularly noteworthy for a vehicle of this age; even minor corrosion on underbody components, ageing brake components, or exhaust deterioration would typically prompt at least a note from the tester. The unbroken pattern of clean passes from 2022 through 2025 suggests that, at the time of testing, the vehicle has been maintained to a standard that satisfies MOT criteria without any components warranting advisory attention. This represents an unusually tidy record for a 17-year-old car and reduces, though does not eliminate, the likelihood of imminent component replacement. With 55,170 miles recorded against a 17-year lifespan, this Fiesta has averaged roughly 3,245 miles per year, which is well below the typical annual mileage for a supermini of its era. Such a low figure could reflect genuine light use, but it equally raises the possibility of extended periods off the road or substantial gaps between motoring activity. Long stationary periods can be particularly harsh on components not designed for inactivity; rubber seals, brake hydraulic systems, suspension bushes, and exhaust mounting rubbers all deteriorate when not exercised. The annual MOT testing cadence has, however, been maintained without interruption, meaning the vehicle was at minimum presented for assessment each year and was therefore likely kept in a roadworthy condition throughout. Given the very low mileage, particular attention during inspection should be paid to the condition of brake discs and calipers. Discs that have spent long periods sitting idle are prone to surface corrosion, which can lead to binding caliper slides, uneven pad wear, and judder under braking. During a test drive, listen for any scraping or grinding from the front wheels on first application of the brakes, and feel for any vibration or pulsation through the brake pedal. Even though the MOT record shows no advisory entries, a binding caliper on a low-mileage vehicle of this age is a plausible finding that would not necessarily have triggered a fail at the time of test. Likewise, check that the handbrake holds the vehicle firmly on an incline, as the rear brake mechanism can seize when infrequently used. The suspension system should also be evaluated thoroughly despite the clean test history. Low annual mileage does not prevent the degradation of rubber bushes, coil springs, and anti-roll bar links, particularly on a chassis now two decades into its service life. On a road test, listen for clonks or knocks over uneven surfaces, particularly at low speed over speed humps, and pay attention to any vagueness in the steering or unusual tyre wear patterns, which can indicate worn suspension linkages. The tyres themselves warrant close scrutiny for cracking of the sidewalls, as older rubber compounds deteriorate regardless of tread depth. Finally, inspect the underside of the vehicle for any signs of oil misting around the engine and gearbox seams, and check the coolant level and condition, as seals and gaskets harden with age even on low-mileage vehicles, and such issues would not necessarily surface during a standard MOT inspection.