2009 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · ML59 RTX

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2009 Ford Fiesta was conducted on 7 May 2025 and resulted in a pass with no defects or advisories recorded. This positive outcome, combined with a previous pass on 28 March 2024 (following an earlier same-day failure that also listed no defects, likely an administrative or pre-retest entry), and a further pass on 9 March 2022, indicates a generally stable maintenance trend. There is no evidence of progressively worsening mechanical condition across the recorded tests, and the absence of advisories on the most recent assessment suggests that the vehicle has not been presenting immediate wear concerns at the time of inspection. That said, MOT history alone is a snapshot of safety and emissions compliance and does not confirm the mechanical health of consumables that may sit just within tolerance. With a recorded mileage of 89,958 miles over approximately seventeen years, this Fiesta has averaged around 5,292 miles annually, which is notably low for its age and segment. Such underutilisation suggests periods of standing or very light use, which carries its own set of mechanical implications distinct from high-mileage wear. Long stationary periods commonly lead to brake disc corrosion, seized or binding calipers, deteriorated rubber components, and moisture accumulation in the engine and gearbox oils. The MOT gap from March 2022 to March 2024 also hints at irregular usage, reinforcing the likelihood of standing-related degradation rather than cumulative wear from regular driving. Given the age and low-mileage profile of this vehicle, a prospective buyer should prioritise age-related deterioration checks over mileage-based wear items. Inspect the tyres carefully for sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber compounds degrade with time regardless of tread depth, and check the spare or inflation kit date codes if fitted. Examine the brake discs for surface rust and lipping, and verify that the calipers release cleanly without binding, which can be detected by ensuring the wheels rotate freely when unbraked and by listening for any scraping or dragging on a test drive. The 12V battery is likely to be of considerable age and should be load tested, while all fluid services including engine coolant, brake fluid (which degrades hygroscopically over time and should be renewed every two to three years), and the manual transmission or automatic gearbox fluid should be verified for condition and age, with the cambelt replacement history confirmed if applicable to this engine variant. On a practical road test, pay particular attention to any suspension clonks or knocks over uneven surfaces, as the anti-roll bar bushes, drop links, and front strut top mounts are commonly perished on Mk6 and Mk7 Fiestas of this vintage and would benefit from inspection via the wheel arches. Listen for any unevenness or juddering under braking, which may indicate warped or corroded brake discs, and feel for pulling to either side suggesting a binding caliper. Cold starts may reveal underlying issues with the throttle body or idle control valve if the vehicle has been standing, and a thorough inspection underneath the bonnet and from beneath the vehicle on a ramp is recommended to check for any fluid leaks, corrosion to the underbody and exhaust system, and the general condition of the CV joint gaiters and steering rack boots. Despite the clean MOT record, the combination of low annual mileage and seventeen years of calendar ageing warrants a measured and thorough mechanical pre-purchase inspection.