2009 Alfa Romeo 159 2.4L Diesel · ML09 BVM

The vehicle presents a worsening maintenance trend characterized by increasing structural and mechanical concerns. While it passed its most recent MOT on 9 April 2026 at 128,165 miles, the record shows a pattern of escalating failures. The tester flagged significant rear subframe corrosion during the April 2026 test, which followed a failure just one day prior at 128,160 miles involving an oil leak, exhaust blow, and binding brakes. This suggests that while the car is being kept roadworthy through reactive repairs, the underlying condition of the chassis and exhaust system is deteriorating. The mileage accumulation is consistent with a vehicle of this age, averaging roughly 7,500 miles per year. The record shows steady progression from 78,048 miles in January 2015 to the current 128,165 miles. There are no significant gaps in usage, though the frequency of MOT failures has increased in recent years. The jump from 103,763 miles in December 2020 to 106,330 miles in May 2022 indicates a period of lower usage, but the subsequent steady climb shows the car has returned to regular road use. A prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the vehicle's structural integrity. The recurring issues with rear coil spring corrosion in 2023 and the recent mention of rear subframe corrosion in 2026 indicate a high risk of advanced oxidation. You should inspect the underside of the car for heavy scale or perforation, particularly around the subframe mounting points and suspension pick-up points. The exhaust system also requires close scrutiny; the record shows a history of leaks and broken clamps dating back to 2019 and 2020, with a major leak noted in May 2023. Mechanical attention should also be directed toward the braking system and suspension components. The tester has identified binding rear brakes and parking brake efficiency issues in 2020, 2022, and 2026, suggesting a persistent issue with caliper seizure or mechanism wear. Additionally, the history of worn suspension bushes and fractured coil springs implies that the front and rear suspension assemblies may require comprehensive refurbishment to ensure handling stability. Verify that the recent oil leak mentioned in April 2026 has been professionally rectified and is not a symptom of a larger engine seal failure.